Category: Entertainment

Over the past decade, it has grown from a local event into a cultural beacon that connects, supports, and elevates East African cinema. This year’s anniversary edition is particularly special, with fresh initiatives and industry insights, attracting creatives from different countries.

The festival coordinator, Leonel Kayitare, reflected on the growth and regional impact. “Ten years ago, we started with a simple goal: to build a platform where East African filmmakers could share their stories. Now, we’re seeing this platform transform into a community where filmmakers from across the region come together to connect, collaborate, and learn. This 10th anniversary is a celebration of that journey.”

Another major aspect to this year’s festival is “Mashaket,” the Kigali International Content Market, which will run from November 7th to 9th. Designed as a business-to-business (B2B) marketplace, Mashaket allows filmmakers to network with buyers, broadcasters, producers and other industry stakeholders.

Kayitare explained its importance: “This is where East African cinema meets the world. It’s a chance for filmmakers to showcase their work, secure funding, and establish partnerships. It’s a space where we’re not only telling stories but also creating business opportunities.”

Reflecting on the festival’s achievements, Kayitare shared how far the East African film industry has come in the past decade. “When we started, most submissions came from outside Rwanda, primarily from Uganda and Kenya,” he recalled.

“Today, we’re seeing more Rwandan filmmakers stepping up, creating award-winning work that’s making a mark across East Africa. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness that growth and to know that MAFF has played a role in it,” he added.

Among the attendees is a Ugandan filmmaker Jenipher Nankabirwa, whose experience at last year’s festival led her to create a collaborative film project between Uganda and Rwanda.

Nankabirwa, the producer and lead actor of The Head, a new Uganda-Rwanda collaborative film, is thrilled to be back at MAFF this year.

“Attending last year’s festival was a huge source of inspiration. It opened my eyes to the potential of cross-border collaborations, and I left with a vision to make a film that would bring Uganda and Rwanda together on screen. I’m so excited that The Head is now a reality, and I can’t wait to share it with audiences here in Kigali.”

The Head is a family drama that explores the challenges faced by families when the fathers, who are traditionally seen as heads of households become distant or neglect their roles.

The film depicts a Ugandan mother of three daughters, whose husband, is physically distant despite providing financial support. The strained relationship with her daughters, coupled with her resentment towards her husband, pushes her to organize a family trip to Kigali.

In an unexpected twist, they find the husband in Kigali on a business assignment, and the trip becomes a turning point, as the family reconnects and rediscovers their bond.

The story also introduces the woman’s eldest daughter the mother girls who meets a young Rwandan man, during the trip. Their budding connection adds another layer to the story, bridging the two cultures and hinting at a bright future of shared stories and experiences.

Nankabirwa explains that this movie felt like the perfect way to blend Ugandan and Rwandan cultures to tell a story that resonates with families in both countries, something universal yet unique to East Africa. She is glad that MAFF gave her the confidence and platform to pursue her vision.

In addition to inspiring films like The Head, MAFF has expanded its programming this year with new capacity-building opportunities. Workshops developed in collaboration with Youth Connect are being held throughout the week, offering insights into various aspects of filmmaking.

“We’re here to support all filmmakers, whether they’re just starting out or have been in the industry for years,” Kayitare said. “These workshops and masterclasses, including those hosted by Sony for cinematographers, provide our filmmakers with the skills they need to create high-quality work that can compete on any stage.”

For attendees like Nankabirwa, MAFF has become an annual highlight and a gathering point for East African filmmakers.

“The festival creates a community. It’s a place where we can exchange ideas, share our stories, and find inspiration. There’s something incredibly powerful about being in a room filled with people who share the same passion for storytelling,” she said

At the 10th year anniversary, it’s clear that the festival has become more than just a showcase, it’s a catalyst for collaboration and a launchpad for East African stories.

With this year’s grand finale set for November 9th, featuring an awards ceremony to recognize the region’s top films, the festival is sure to close on a high note, celebrating a decade of accomplishments and setting the stage for the future of Cinema in Rwanda.

And as Kayitare said, “This is just the beginning. We’re building a foundation that will support our filmmakers for years to come.”

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Bunyeshuri revealed that the event, aimed at helping singles find their missing ribs, will be held on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 6 PM until late.

Dubbed ‘Kigali Night of Love,’ the singles party will also feature what the organizer described as ‘Bachelor Games’ and ‘Fun and Flirty Activities for Singles.’

The event will be hosted at Chem Chem Cafe Bar, housed within Rubangura Apartments in Kimihurura, and is expected to attract singles from all walks of life, including the thriving corporate sector in the Rwandan capital.

Admission to the event will cost Frw20,000 for a reserved table. However, those who pay will be able to use the ticket for consumables such as drinks.

Participants will be treated to performances from the Twilight Band, a member of the prestigious International Jazz Festival in Washington, DC. The band specializes in jazz, blues, soul, rhythm and blues, and funk music.

Bunyeshuri, who has hosted similar events in Ethiopia, Uganda, and North America, expressed confidence that the event will provide a relaxed and low-pressure atmosphere, offering singles the perfect opportunity to explore romantic connections while also improving their social interaction skills, especially for those who are busy or shy.

“We are creators of what is burdened to be unburdened and give loving singles a chance to realize their dreams by attending and matching with serious, responsible hopefuls! It’s all in the name of love!” he stated.

Notably, unlike conventional dating, which focuses on longer, one-on-one interactions that allow people to build a deeper connection before deciding to pursue a relationship, speed dating involves meeting a large number of people in a short period to gauge compatibility.

Speed dating events are designed to be engaging, making it a fun way to meet new people rather than the sometimes-intense experience of traditional dating.

During his last appearance on IGIHE’s ‘Scoop on Scoop’ entertainment show in September, Bunyeshuri described the speed dating event held earlier this year as successful, insisting that some of the participants have gone on to build thriving relationships.

“There were so many young diplomats from international embassies in Rwanda, members of the corporate sector, and young entrepreneurs who don’t have time to go to bars and look for someone, or to ask their families to connect them to others. They want to meet in a more corporate environment, and that was the right place for them,” he said, noting that some people who criticized the speed dating event misunderstood its purpose and impact.

He acknowledged that criticism and the fear of being judged are some of the challenges facing emerging trends in modern dating, especially in conservative societies.

“Speed dating in Rwanda, a very conservative country, obviously faces negative talk and criticism from people. This is expected,” he added.

In an exclusive interview during his recent visit to Kigali, Muhangi shared with IGIHE that his attendance and participation at Gen-Z Comedy shows in Rwanda was part of sealing a collaboration that had been in the works for some time.

“Call it a collabo, a working relationship, or just brotherhood—this is something we’ve been anticipating for a long time. These guys have a bright future in the region and potentially across the continent,” Muhangi said.

The partnership will see both comedy teams exchange talents, including comedians and musicians, to perform at their respective shows in Rwanda and Uganda. Muhangi highlighted the mutual respect and friendship between the two teams.

“Fally Merci and his Gen-Z Comedy crew are good friends of Comedy Store. We’ve started planning to bring Kigali-based comedians to perform in Uganda and vice versa, with Ugandan comedians taking the stage at Gen-Z Comedy. We came here to finalize the details and kick start this collaboration.”

Muhangi stressed that this close partnership will enable both events to grow and broaden their perspectives. He believes this exchange will help comedians from both countries to expand their horizons and build a wider audience.

“With my experience, I can sense when something has the potential to become huge in the future. The more you open your mind, the more innovative you become. That’s a key reason for this collaboration,” he explained.

Surprisingly, Muhangi revealed that when he started Comedy Store, it was in a far more difficult position than where Gen-Z Comedy stands today. He confidently tipped Gen-Z Comedy to become the best in the region, and potentially the entire continent, in the coming years.

This collaboration marks a new chapter in the East African comedy scene, promising exciting times ahead for both artists and audiences alike.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, she expressed her desire to use her influence to help as many children as possible access medical care to prevent blindness, with support from Light for the World, an international disability and development NGO dedicated to promoting an inclusive society.

She also spoke about her success at the pageant and future plans to participate in Miss Universe in October, her mixed heritage, love for Rwanda, popular tourist destinations and hobbies, as well as the country’s music and fashion industries.

Here is the transcript of the full interview:

Q: What inspired you to contest for Miss Belgium 2024, and what helped you win?

How I think I won is by having a very clear vision of what I wanted to achieve. What inspired me to contest for Miss Belgium 2024 is that, when you become Miss Belgium, you get a platform. You gain the ability to change a lot of things in your own country and other countries as well. You become a spokesperson for your country, and you can change a lot by just speaking out.

Before this, I was just a student with great ideas, but as a student, you can’t achieve the same impact as Miss Belgium. I wanted to become Miss Belgium to make a change and talk about issues like children’s mental health and the importance of education.
That was my goal, and I even shared this during the final stage of the competition. I was so happy when the judges appreciated that, and that’s how I became Miss Belgium.

Q: What does this victory mean to you on a personal level?

This victory is important because I didn’t aspire to be Miss Belgium just for fame or media attention—I wanted to make a change. As a kid, I was fortunate to have access to school and university, but I know many children in Rwanda, especially those who are blind, don’t have the same opportunities.

I found Light for the World through a friend in Belgium, and they help thousands of babies every year at Kabgayi to get the surgeries they need to prevent blindness caused by cataracts. This is very important to me. My goal as Miss Belgium is to make a difference by supporting these children.

Q: What inspired you to choose a good charity for Rwanda?

I wanted to focus on children who needed my help the most. I thought about how I could make a big difference in a short time because I’m only Miss Belgium for one year.

After that, I lose the title. When I visited Rwanda as a child, I saw how difficult life was for blind children—going to school or finding a job was almost impossible. I want to help more than a thousand babies a year get the surgery they need, giving them a brighter future.

Vision is the foundation of a bright future here in Rwanda because they need to see to go to school and work. If I can raise money in Belgium or Rwanda to help these kids, I’ll do everything I can.

We’re planning benefit events in Belgium where companies can donate, and all the money will go to Light for the World, so the Rwandan doctors get everything they need.

Q: Tell us more about your upbringing and Rwandan heritage.

My connection with Rwanda is very special because my mom is Rwandan, and my whole family is from here. Every year, we would come to Rwanda to visit my grandparents.
Sadly, they’ve passed away, but I spent every summer in Rwanda—first in Gikondo, then Nyarutarama. I’m very close to my roots, and Rwanda is as important to me as Belgium.

The only downside is I don’t speak Kinyarwanda fluently, but I understand almost everything. My mom would speak Kinyarwanda with her sisters, and I got frustrated that I couldn’t understand, so I taught myself a bit. I can’t make full sentences, but I find it very important to at least understand the people from my country.

Q: What is one thing you like the most about Rwanda and how have the Rwandan roots influenced your identity?

What I love most about Rwanda is how important family is. Everyone takes care of each other, even neighbors and friends are considered family. When I come to Rwanda, even if I don’t know you, I feel like you are family.

My Rwandan roots have influenced my identity, especially because I was very close to my mom. She showed me that in Rwanda, you have to care for others, especially those in need, whether they lack money or need medical help.

Q: How often do you visit Rwanda, and what places or experiences stand out to you the most?

Although I live in Belgium, I visit Rwanda almost every year. As a child, I was always in Kigali, but now that I’m an adult, I’m exploring other parts of the country.

Last year, I travelled by car and saw the whole country. I visited Kibuye, Gisenyi, Mount Bisoke, and Akagera [Akagera National Park] in just one week! What stood out most to me were the fishermen in Kibuye. Their story was so powerful, and they believed in creating positive vibes while fishing. I spent a day with them, and it was magical. Kibuye is definitely my favourite spot in Rwanda.

Q: How do you think the creative industries (music, film, and fashion) in Rwanda are evolving, and would you like to contribute?

The music scene in Rwanda is evolving quickly, and there are some amazing artists. I’ve seen concerts and videos on YouTube, and international artists are also taking notice.
For example, Stromae [Belgian singer and rapper Paul Van Haver] is of Rwandan descent, and I believe we have incredible talent. I think Rwanda will grow even faster in the future.

Miss Rwanda is also a great way to showcase the country on an international stage. With the world cycling championship happening next year, Rwanda will gain more recognition through sports, but I also think strong women can help show the world what Rwanda has to offer. If I can help in that, I’d love to contribute.

Q: Are there any Rwandan musicians or fashion figures you admire?

I admire Meddy. When I was younger, I often rode in cabs in Kigali, and I always heard his song ‘Igipimo’. I’ve loved that song ever since, so Meddy is one of my favourite artists.

I also admire Naomi, Miss Rwanda 2020. She’s done amazing things for the country, and I’m so proud of her. I want to congratulate her on her upcoming wedding. These two are people I look up to in Rwanda. Naomi is a great role model, and I think she’s an excellent spokesperson for Rwandan women.

Q: Have you faced any challenges related to your mixed heritage in the pageantry industry, and how have you overcome them?

Being mixed can attract comments from both sides. Some say, “You’re not fully Rwandan,” while others say, “You’re not fully Belgian.” But I find it amusing because being mixed is a beautiful thing, and I’m proud of it.

I’ve learned to ignore the hateful comments and focus on my purpose and goals. That’s what matters most. I also hope to change how people in the media view African countries by showing the beauty of Rwanda—places like Kibuye, Akagera, and Mount Bisoke. I think more people need to see how beautiful our country and nature are.

Q: Outside of pageantry, what are some of your hobbies and interests?

My hobby is modelling but I also enjoy sports, and I love going on walks. I also volunteer at animal shelters. I adopted my dog from a shelter, and I enjoy helping out there.

Another passion of mine is learning languages. I’m currently studying in English, but I usually speak Flemish. My mom spoke to me in French, and I also learned German in school. I understand Kinyarwanda, but I’m working on speaking it fluently. My main hobby is learning as many languages as I can.

Q: What are your long-term goals after your reign as Miss Belgium ends?

My long-term plan is to continue helping people, possibly living in Rwanda and making a difference here. I want to keep modeling, but also combine it with helping others.

At the end of the day, I want to look back and feel proud of myself for the impact I made. I want to inspire women from all backgrounds, whether they’re Black, white, mixed, or Asian.
Every woman deserves to achieve her dreams—whether that’s getting a degree, landing a job, or being a mother. Being a mom is so powerful because we give life, and it’s our time to shine.

Q: What advice would you give to young women who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
I believe every woman is beautiful in her own way, whether she’s blonde, brunette, or anything else. What makes someone truly beautiful is her story—what she wants to achieve and how she goes about it.

My advice is stay true to who you are and show the world your goals and how you plan to achieve them. If you’re determined, people will choose you for who you are.

From notable appearances to unexpected surprises, the evening was filled with moments that sparked conversation and left a lasting impression on all who attended. Here are the top five standout moments at the Silver gala

The dress code was a striking fusion of cultural creativity and sophisticated elegance:

Attendees of the Silver Gala took the theme of the event to heart by blending traditional elements with high-end fashion. The creativity in combining bold, colorful cultural attire with elegant, contemporary designs not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of the participants but also reflected a modern, stylish twist.

This mix was likely encouraged by the gala’s intent to promote cultural pride while maintaining a sense of class and formality suited to the prestigious nature of the event.

The event preparation and turnout were exceptional, with flawless execution:

The level of attention to detail in organizing the gala was remarkable. From the venue setup, which likely involved intricate lighting, decorations, and seating arrangements, to the punctual and well-structured program, everything went off without a hitch.

The impressive turnout of attendees, many of whom were high-profile figures, contributed to the event’s success. The professionalism in managing both logistics and guest relations speaks to the organizer’s deep experience in handling such grand events, likely ensuring everything ran smoothly.

An Arsenal jersey fetched a staggering USD 3500, while a Childish Gambino signed jacket sold for USD 2000:

The auction became one of the night’s biggest talking points, with bids skyrocketing for these exclusive items. The Arsenal jersey, likely a rare or signed piece, drew the attention of passionate sports fans willing to bid generously, while the Childish Gambino jacket appealed to music and pop culture enthusiasts.

The high auction prices suggest that the crowd was eager to contribute to the foundation’s cause, and the bidders likely had both personal interest in the items and a desire to support charity, driving the prices up.

Runtown made a notable appearance but left guests puzzled as he did not perform:

The presence of Runtown, a renowned Nigerian artist, was highly anticipated, and many guests expected him to take the stage. However, despite being seen interacting with attendees, he did not perform, leaving many wondering why.

A possible explanation could be a last-minute issue but its alternatively possible that Runtown was not officially booked to perform but attended the event as a special guest, with some guests incorrectly assuming he was part of the lineup.

The Sherrie Silver Foundation’s performance stole the show, leaving the crowd in awe:

Sherrie Silver’s foundation, known for its powerful and engaging performances, delivered the most memorable act of the night. The performance likely combined energetic choreography, cultural storytelling, and a strong message of empowerment, which resonated deeply with the audience.

The foundation’s ability to bring such passion and purpose to the stage could be tied to their broader mission of using dance and art to uplift communities, making it more than just entertainment but an inspiring and transformative experience for all who watched.

As the doors opened, the guests, dressed in some of the most fashionable and extravagant attires, made a grand entrance, setting the tone for the night. The fashion on display was a testament to Africa’s growing influence on the global fashion scene. It was clear that the night would be more than just a celebration – it was a showcase of power, creativity, and talent.

Kicking off the night in style, the children youths from the Sherrie Silver Foundation graced the stage with their heartwarming performance of “Ndagukunda Afurika” (I Love You Africa), which was creatively performed with the incorporation of flags from various African nations. This moving tribute set the stage for the magic that was to follow.

The performances kept coming, with Aline Sano serenading the audience with her hit songs “None” and “Fake Gee”. The crowd was visibly moved, singing along to every lyric.
However, the electrifying energy hit the best high when the night’s headliner, Benjamin Mugisha also known as The Ben, took to the stage. Alongside Kevin Kade and Element, the Ben performed his new song Sikosa for their fans for the first time since its release

His powerful voice and stirring performance left everyone mesmerized. Before this, he took a moment to praise Sherrie Silver, saying, “This is an opportunity to tell you how much I’m proud of you. The work ethic and the big heart are an inspiration for me to always support you.”

The performances were interspersed with jaw-dropping moments from Sherrie Silver and her dance crew, whose vibrant choreography and stage presence kept the audience on their feet. Every interval performance was met with roaring applause, and it was clear that Sherrie Silver’s dedication to her craft had paid off.

But the night wasn’t just about the music and dancing – the speeches were equally stirring. Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership University, captivated the audience with his motivational words. “We are creating the next generation of superstars. As Africa, we will get the respect we deserve if we tell our story in the best way possible. I pledge all my support in this regard,” he said.

His call for more investment in the arts resonated with the crowd, and his promise of support to Sherrie Silver was met with thunderous applause.

Another standout speech came from Nigerian politician and entrepreneur Peter Gregory Obi, who praised Sherrie Silver’s commitment to nurturing young talent. “Sherrie’s work is extraordinary. What she’s doing for the youth is inspiring, and I will do everything I can to spread the word about her efforts,” he said, offering his full support to her foundation.

Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, also took the stage to share his admiration for Sherrie Silver, saying, “I’ve encountered Sherrie on several occasions, and every time, I’m impressed with the zeal and vigor with which she approaches her work.” His words echoed the sentiments of everyone in the room – that Sherrie Silver is a force to be reckoned with.

As the night drew to a close, items were auctioned to raise funds for the Sherrie Silver Foundation, with guests enthusiastically participating in the bidding. The proceeds will go toward supporting young African talent, a cause close to Sherrie’s heart.

In her own words, Rwanda’s very own Mutesi Jolly perfectly summed up the night. “Our country has provided opportunities for the youth, and we should seize them. Let’s make the most of these moments,” she said.
The gala was not just a celebration of talent but also a reminder of the potential Africa holds – a continent bursting with creativity, passion, and promise.

The Silver Gala was, without a doubt, an evening of unforgettable memories. From the dazzling fashion to the inspiring speeches and breathtaking performances, it was a night that celebrated Africa’s bright future. As The Ben so powerfully said, “The best way to achieve your dreams is to keep your standards. Let us not lose that no matter what.” What a night to remember!

Years pass, and 1979 arrives. Fatback releases what is considered the beginning of recorded hip-hop music, “King Tim III,” appearing on their disco album Fatback XII.

Still, in 1979, Sylvia Robinson, an American singer and record producer, introduces the Sugarhill Gang to the world. The Sugarhill Gang releases what is considered the introduction of hip-hop music to a wider audience, “Rapper’s Delight.”

The genre goes mainstream. Artists start to express various social issues through it. Political issues, poverty, inequality, and police brutality become prominent topics. Hip-hop is now a different type of culture.

As hip-hop music evolves, 1984 arrives. The Roxanne Wars begin with Roxanne Shante and Marley Marl’s “Roxanne’s Revenge,” a diss record targeting U.T.F.O, a hip-hop group from Brooklyn, New York. U.T.F.O replies with “The Real Roxanne,” and the beef begins.

A series of beefs follow, most notably the Bridge Wars and the famed East Coast and West Coast hip-hop rivalry, involving artists from New York and California. The East Coast and West Coast hip-hop rivalry culminates in violence.

From the Roxanne Wars and the Bridge Wars to the East and West Coast rivalry, G-Unit vs. Murder Inc., and the ongoing Kendrick vs. Drake beef, how did beefs transition from artistic rivalries to real-life hatred?

Tupac vs. Biggie might be the biggest beef the hip-hop community has ever seen, arguably. The feud was also linked to the competition between two of the most powerful record labels of their era, Bad Boy Records and Death Row Records. The feud also played a significant part in the West Coast and East Coast hip-hop rivalry but was more personal.

The two had met for the first time in 1993 and became friends. They even performed together at a concert at Madison Square Garden, New York, that same year. But things between the two of the best to ever grace hip-hop took an unexpected turn.

In 1994, Tupac was shot, and the shooting accusations fell on Biggie and Puff Daddy, who was Biggie’s boss at Bad Boy Records. “Who Shot Ya,” a record believed to be a diss towards Tupac, was released later in 1995. Believing the song was aimed at him, Tupac released “Hit ‘Em Up” in 1996 after coming out of prison, taking shots at Biggie, his rap supergroup Junior M.A.F.I.A., and the entire Bad Boy Records. On the night of September 7, 1996, Tupac was shot dead, and the accusations fell on Biggie and Bad Boy Records again. On March 9 of the following year, Biggie was also shot dead. The animosity between the two was beyond art, and their tragic deaths illustrate how far their feud had gone. Was that still art?

Jay-Z vs. Nas might be another of the biggest beefs the hip-hop community has ever witnessed. Even though the two reconciled in later years and have been on good terms for quite some time, their beef wasn’t solely from an artistic point of view. It is believed that the beef dates back to 1996 when Nas refused to appear on Jay-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt.

In 1997, following Biggie’s death, JAY-Z proclaimed himself as the best MC out of New York. In 2001, JAY-Z released his sixth studio album, The Blueprint. On the second single off the album, “Takeover,” JAY-Z attacked Nas and claimed the Queensbridge MC averages only one good album every 10 years. The Brooklyn MC further criticized Nas’s style of rapping as ‘garbage.’

In that same year, Nas released his fifth studio album, Stillmatic. On the album, the response to Jay-Z’s “Takeover” came with the second single, “Ether.” On the song, Nas calls Jay-Z ‘weak’ and claims that Eminem outrapped him on his own song. “Eminem murdered you on your own sh*t,” in reference to Jay-Z and Eminem’s song “Renegade.” Nas also sent homophobic shots at his rival by calling him “GAY-Z.” It is also said that the song had a previous version that was not released, where Nas claimed that Jay-Z deserved to die in the plane crash that took Aaliyah’s life on August 25 of that same year. Was that still art?

Tupac vs. Biggie or Jay-Z vs. Nas aside, you can’t talk about hip-hop beefs without mentioning 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule. Yes, 50 Cent vs. Ja Rule. The beef started with robbery. Ja Rule was robbed and accused 50 Cent of being behind the incident. Later in 2000, 50 Cent was stabbed by Murder Inc. associates, a record company to which Ja Rule was signed.

Following this, a series of diss records were released towards each other and involved other artists like Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Fat Joe, and Jadakiss. The feud escalated to a G-Unit vs. Murder Inc. beef. Over 20 years later, the two are still enemies and don’t seem to be putting aside their differences anytime soon. Isn’t that beyond art?

It’s 2024, and Drake is at his peak as an artist. Away from Toronto is Kendrick Lamar, a Compton native believed to be one of the greatest hip-hop artists of all time and the best of his generation. In the other corner is Jermaine Cole, and the three are said to be the ‘BIG 3,’ referring to the biggest three rap artists of the modern era.

Let’s go back a little to October 6, 2023. Aubrey ‘Drake’ Graham releases his eighth studio album, For All the Dogs. On the album appears “First Person Shooter,” featuring two of the acclaimed BIG 3. On the song, Jermaine crowns himself as the ‘Muhammad Ali’ of the three. The claims reach Kendrick, and we return to 2024.

It’s March 22, 2024. Metro Boomin and Future release their collaborative album, We Don’t Trust You. “Like That” is the sixth track off the album, and Kendrick is featured on it. On the song, the Compton MC distances himself from the BIG 3 comparisons. It’s not the ‘BIG 3,’ it’s the ‘BIG KENDRICK.’

April 5 arrives, and Jermaine unexpectedly drops his fourth mixtape, Might Delete Later. On the mixtape is “7 Minutes Drill,” where the North Carolina rapper attacks his Compton friend.

Then, on April 19, Aubrey attacks Kendrick with “Push-Ups,” which had been leaked about a week before. The AI-assisted “Taylor Made Freestyle” drops on the same day, too.

By April 30, Euphoria is released in response to “Push-Ups.” On May 3, 6:16 in L.A. drops, with Kendrick still going at Aubrey. On the same day, “Family Matters” is unleashed toward Kendrick. Was that enough? No! It’s only twenty minutes since “Family Matters” came out, and “Meet the Grahams” is playing in Aubrey’s speakers.

Still not over? No! May 4 arrives, and Aubrey is bombarded again with “Not Like Us.” In response, May 5 brings “The Heart Part 6” from Aubrey.

Throughout the Kendrick-Drake beef, dating back to 2012, personal lives were attacked, insults were exchanged, and families were involved. Is that still art?

Throughout hip-hop’s existence, beefs have arisen. Some were resolved peacefully, while others became the center of violence and loss of life. There are many examples illustrating how hip-hop beefs have gone beyond art and created lasting hatred among those involved.

Notable cases include Pusha T vs. Drake, Eminem vs. Benzino, Gucci Mane vs. Jeezy, 50 Cent vs. Game, Rick Ross vs. 50 Cent, 50 Cent vs. Diddy, Mase vs. Diddy, and the currently squashed PFLA vs. Bulldog case.

The movie entitled “THE HEAD” is a family drama that navigates real-life experiences surrounding family life, exploring men who would be heads of these families either staying away or neglecting their natural duties and responsibilities.

It portrays scenarios of seemingly perfect families which unravel when certain deep-rooted secrets come to light. The film delves into complexities of family dynamics, loyalty, and the struggle for identity.

Set against the backdrop of a charming, close-knit storyline, the film uses scenic beauty and the intimate community atmosphere to contrast various unifying factors between Rwanda and Uganda, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse cultures.

It features renowned actors from Umurage Art Films from Rwanda and prominent movie stars from Flair Film Promotions, a Ugandan-based dynamic and innovative film company dedicated to promoting the rich and diverse cinematic landscape in the region.

According to Jeniffer Nankabirwa, the Film Producer and CEO at Flair Film Promotions, “THE HEAD” is an educative and entertaining movie disseminating information and knowledge that contributes to the establishment and sustainability of a family.

“It speaks to fathers, mothers and children in a family setup. It’s a campaign to empower everyone to know and undertake their responsibilities as members of a family,” she said in an interview.

Nankabirwa revealed that if all goes as planned, the movie will be premiered on September 1, 2024, at Club Obligato in Kampala. It will also be premiered in Kigali at a later date.

She said that uniting with Rwandan actors was a well-thought vision to disseminate this important message to expanded horizons in the East African region and beyond.

“The ultimate goal is to work with actors from other countries including Kenya and Tanzania to reach out to larger audiences with this vital information of promoting family health amongst the public,” she noted.

When diverse talents and visions merge to create an unforgettable cinematic experience, public sensitization becomes much easier especially when it involves different beliefs and cultures.

Having successfully completed numerous shooting sessions in both countries, Nankabirwa says that efforts are underway to have the movie ready for more international showcasing.

The collaborative nature of the movie, considering the global and diverse effort to build relationships and sustainable families, suits into Rwanda’s vision of promoting the family as the smallest unit of the country’s populace.

It also speaks volumes towards the country’s strategies in empowering the film and arts industry not only to entertain but also educate and unite their audiences, fostering a greater sense of East African unity and shared identity.

During the 9th edition of Mashiriki African Film Festival held in Kigali, in November last year, suggestions were put forward on how to collectively strengthen the film industry in the region with collaborations between actors from different countries taking centre stage.

This movie is one of several recent productions that have highlighted the growing talent and unique storytelling emerging from both Rwanda and Uganda.

Such productions can serve as platforms to pass on important communication while still enabling the recipients to enjoy and grasp the message in an entertaining way.