The red carpet sparkled with stunning outfits and flashing cameras as guests posed for photos and shared laughs with the press before heading into the main hall. The evening blended fashion, music, and art, offering a taste of Rwanda’s growing creative energy.
Opening the night, Sherrie Silver said her inspiration for the gala stemmed from a desire to empower young Rwandans with talent.
“I wanted to create a platform where the youth can shine, express themselves, and realise their potential, not just for their own success, but to uplift the country,” she said.
Umutoni Sandrine, Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, applauded Silver’s initiative, describing her as a role model for Africa’s creative industry.
“Sherrie Silver has used her talent to open doors for others and showcase African artistry on the global stage,” she said. “Tonight is proof of what happens when we believe in young people and invest in the arts, not as charity, but as a tool for transformation.”
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nurturing the creative sector under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, adding that Rwanda continues to place art and innovation at the centre of national progress.
{{A night of glamour, bids, and beats
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Adding a sporty twist to the glamorous night, Miss Jolly Mutesi outbid several guests to secure a signed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) jersey for $1,000 (about Frw 1.4 million). She revealed that she plans to display the prized collectible as a home décor piece. The French football club is a partner of Visit Rwanda, the tourism-focused arm of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
The Best Dressed category turned into a stylish showdown featuring Bwiza, Mutesi Jolly, Miss Nishimwe Naomie, Anitha Urayeneza (of Romantic Garden), Olivia The Design, Tanga Designs, Juno Kizigenza, and Ross Kana.
Pop star Bwiza once again stole the spotlight, walking away with the $1,000 Best Dressed Award, marking her second consecutive win after triumphing at last year’s inaugural gala.
The night also carried a touch of philanthropy. The BK Foundation pledged to cover school fees for 100 children supported by the Sherrie Silver Foundation, both in public and private schools.
In the fashion segment, Icyacumi was crowned Best Fashion Designer, taking home $5,000 and six months of free Canal Box internet.
Performances by Juno Kizigenza, Butera Knowless, Massamba Intore, Nigerian singer Chella, and Sherrie Silver herself, joined by children from her foundation, kept the energy high until late in the night.
The Silver Gala once again proved why it’s becoming one of Kigali’s most anticipated annual events, a celebration of creativity, talent, and style with a purpose.
“It is already very rare to see an independent film, and even rarer to see an independent African one. So, we wanted to expose them to that,” explains Scott Hillier, founder of the festival and partner of the French Institute.
The students, from Green Hills Academy and the École Française Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, participated in a contest aimed at developing their critical thinking.
“They had to judge a film based on its performance, the emotion it evoked, its aesthetics, and its story. This engaged them a lot, and they all voted for a film to award it a prize,” Hillier adds.
The festival also allowed the young audience to discover films from other international festivals curated by Hillier, offering a global panorama of independent cinema.
“We presented African films, then films from the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe. Their reaction surprised me: they really enjoyed it and actively participated in the voting,” he says.
Among the films screened, Deja Nu from Côte d’Ivoire and The Yellow Dress from Kenya particularly impressed Hillier, whom he describes as showcasing raw, emotional, and authentic storytelling talent.
In total, 21 films are competing this year, across 14 categories, ranging from feature films to documentaries, student films, and experimental works. The festival also offers the Rwandan Film Students Special Award, allowing Rwandan students to screen their films on a big screen in front of an audience outside their school.
Hillier emphasises the importance of promoting authentic stories. “Seeing the amazed faces of young viewers reinforces this choice. We want to tell impactful stories that spark conversations, even if opinions are divided,” he says.
The inaugural screening was initiated by the director of the French Institute in Rwanda, Ms. Lee Fou Messica, and organised in collaboration with Aimée Umutoni Kabuguza, who convinced Scott Hillier to hold the first edition of the AAIFF in Rwanda rather than in Cape Town.
In this school screening, the students’ votes awarded Beyond The Ring, a South African documentary directed by Mari Geldenhuys and Malcolm Rainers, as the winner of their competition. Meanwhile, the main festival will officially kick off on Friday and run through Sunday, with the grand prize to be awarded during Sunday’s closing ceremony.
Among the young Rwandan talents present, Méthode Muhire, a film student at East African University Rwanda (EAUR), shared his journey: “At first, I knew nothing about cinema. After a brief course in video production and some experience in photography and videography, I decided to develop my skills at university. Today, I have made two short films, won two international awards, and am working on a new project called Fallout.”
For Hillier, Kigali proves to be an ideal location for the festival: “This is where it all happens. Rwandans have warmly welcomed the festival, and we hope to host even more participants this year.”
Moreover, the AAIFF is part of the Ecu Festival Group and continues to promote African independent cinema, giving a voice to a new generation of filmmakers.
The 37-year-old made the revelations on Password, a youth-focused show on Rwanda National Television that discusses personal development and success. While flipping through videos on his phone of the life he envisions, Coach Gaël revealed a range of exciting plans.
Among his goals, he wants to establish a centre supporting at least 7,000 orphans and publish several books, with one planned release by the time he turns 40.
“I want to create a media company that teaches entrepreneurship,” he said. “And yes, one day, I want to stand by my own private jet. I also hope to own a company that acquires others and maintain a healthy lifestyle through sports.”
Speaking to the youth audience, Coach Gaël stressed the importance of action alongside dreams.
“It’s good to have dreams, but you must also take steps to achieve them. In life, when you want something, you stand up and go get it,” he advised.
Asked about continuing his previous missionary work in India, he said it’s no longer his path.
“Preaching the Word of God the way I did before? Not anymore. I’ve found a new approach which is motivating young people and others to achieve their goals.”
Reflecting on his achievements in entrepreneurship so far, Coach Gaël admitted he’s not fully satisfied.
“The level I’ve reached doesn’t excite me much because there’s still a lot of work ahead. In the next two years, I hope to finish my current projects and move to the next stage.”
He attributes his success to two key traits: a love of learning and confidence. “I study constantly to keep up with the latest technology and trends. And I believe that whatever I set my mind to is possible,” he said.
With a mix of high-flying dreams and grounded advice for young people, Coach Gaël continues to inspire audiences across Rwanda with his ambition and energy.
The celebrated singer arrived in Kigali accompanied by his partner and manager, Maisha Madrugada Wirth.
The couple, who have been in a long-term relationship, are reportedly already planning their wedding, according to reliable sources. Nviiri and Maisha started dating after his split from Elodie Zone, a well-known Kenyan social media personality.
Fans in Kigali are in for a treat as Nviiri prepares to share the stage with fellow Kenyan artist Bensoul, who is expected to arrive on Saturday morning. They will be joined by top Rwandan acts, including Shemi, Kid from Kigali, and Angell Mutoni.
The singer is set to perform a lineup of his biggest hits, including Pombe Sigara, Niko Sawa featuring Bien, Nikita, Kitenge, and other fan favourites.
Before fully committing to music, Nviiri studied mechanical engineering and worked in the field, collaborating with his father, but his passion for music ultimately won out.
The party, which debuted in July, introduced a new soundscape to a scene where Afrobeats and Amapiano have long dominated the dance floor. Its focus on R&B, hip-hop, and soul struck a chord with revellers nostalgic for the genre’s golden years, while also drawing in a younger crowd that has embraced the resurgence of contemporary R&B.
This weekend’s edition will once again be hosted by MC Zuba Mutesi, with DJs Khizzbeats, DJ Karim, and others keeping the vibe alive from evening until late.
Organised by SEEV Africa in collaboration with Intore Entertainment, Spin the Block positions itself within Kigali’s nightlife as one of the few locally-owned concepts dedicated to R&B and Old Skool music. It aims to build a space where audiences of different generations — from fans of the new R&B wave to those raised on the sounds of the 1990s and 2000s — can converge.
For the organisers, Spin the Block represents both cultural pride and creative ownership. “This is about building something rooted in Rwanda, with local DJs, hosts, and a long-term vision,” SEEV Africa founder Paul Atwine said during the first edition.
For Kigali, Spin the Block signals both a celebration of nostalgia and a shift toward more diverse nightlife offerings.
The next edition of Spin the Block is scheduled for December 6th in Kigali, with the final event of the year set to take place in Accra, with the date to be announced soon.
Scheduled for 22–29 November 2025 in Kigali, the festival is also expanding beyond the capital, with activities lined up in different provinces. More than 160 nominees are in the running across 23 categories, selected through the Iziwacu Cinema programme.
Festival CEO and founder Trésor Senga said the changes were designed to push the event to new heights and give more value to the individuals behind Rwanda’s fast-growing film industry.
Alongside the new car prizes for the People’s Choice categories, the festival has introduced a slot for film technicians, shining a spotlight on often-overlooked creatives. Winners in most categories will be picked by a jury, but fans will have their say through online voting, which opens on Monday, September 15. Voters will even get 20% of their money back for each vote cast.
Among the actors vying for Best Actor (People’s Choice) are familiar names such as Mugisha Emmanuel, a.k.a. Kibonge (Deceiver), Benimana Ramadhan, better known as Bamenya (Bamenya Series), and Niyitegeka Gratien, popularly known as Papa Sava. On the actresses’ side, contenders include Mumararungu Joyeuse (Micky in Igihome), Dusenge Clenia (Madedeli in Papa Sava), and Irakoze Ariane Vanessa, who fans know as Kate/Maya in Hurts Harder.
The week-long event will also feature Mashariki Market, a three-day industry forum expected to draw more than 500 film representatives from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and across Africa. For local creatives, it’s a chance to plug into international networks through platforms like Mashariki Residence and Mashariki Academy.
But the festival isn’t just about red carpets and awards. This year, film stars will tour five districts across Rwanda to connect with audiences, showcase their work, and take part in community service.
With bigger prizes, fresh categories, and wider reach, Mashariki African Film Festival 2025 promises to be its most exciting edition yet.
The Nigerian singer recently visited Rwanda for the 20th edition of Kwita Izina, where she named a baby gorilla “Kundwa,” meaning “loved,” and expressed her delight at trekking to see the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
Yemi first unveiled Yem Beauty in August 2025, marking her entry into the beauty industry. Known for her bold style and stage presence, the brand is an extension of her vibrant personality.
Since breaking out in 2005, Yemi Alade has become one of Africa’s most celebrated artists, with hits like Johnny, Oh My Gosh, Shekere, Ferrari, and Na Gode.
Born Yemi Eberechi Alade on March 13, 1989, she has built a global fanbase while staying true to her Nigerian roots, with a family background tied to Ondo and Abia States.
Sagna was among the celebrities who graced the 20th anniversary of the Kwita Izina baby gorilla naming ceremony in Rwanda on September 5, 2025.
He revealed his love for Meddy’s songs while visiting his friend Karim Nzabonimana, a Rwandan celebrity barber who has made a name for himself on the global grooming stage.
During an exclusive interview with IGIHE in Kigali, Sagna revealed that he was surprised to receive a message from Karim saying he was in Rwanda. He didn’t hesitate to visit him at his barbershop for a haircut.
“He used to look after me in Dubai, so I had to come to get my hair fixed. When he messaged me, the first thing I did was find time to come,” Sagna shared.
The footballer, who expressed admiration for Rwanda, also revealed his love for music, singling out Meddy as one of his favourite artists.
“I love music, and I’m a fan of Meddy. My favourite song is Burinde Bucya—I play it on repeat in my car. I think it’s all about emotions. I also like Blessed and Downtown, but my favourite is Burinde Bucya,” he revealed.
Sagna also showed IGIHE a selection of Meddy songs he frequently listens to on his phone, including Lose Control, Closer, and Ntacyo Nzaba.
The former footballer made over 280 appearances for Arsenal and won an FA Cup before moving to Manchester City.
A medical report from Kyegera Doctors Center, seen by IGIHE, confirmed that she succumbed to an illness that evening.
The news was also confirmed by Bikem Uwayesu, one of her close representatives, who was with her in Uganda.
He explained that Gogo and her team had travelled from Rwanda to Uganda on August 28, 2025, to attend a gospel crusade in Mbarara, held from August 29 to 31.
Following the event, she and her team continued to Kampala on August 31, where she was scheduled to work on promotional activities with a certain company.
Shortly after arriving in Kampala, Gogo fell ill. At first, those close to her thought it was a mild condition, as she had battled the same illness before. However, her health deteriorated rapidly, and despite being rushed to the hospital, she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Gogo who rose to prominence on social media, gained wider attention after her worship track was remixed by South African musician David Scott, popularly known as The Kiffness.
Gogo was best known online for her heartfelt worship songs, often sung in English with her distinct accent. In the viral clip, she sings: “Everyday, I need the blood of Jesus.”
The Kiffness reworked the video by layering her vocals with trumpet and piano, creating a lively new version that he shared on TikTok and YouTube in January.
By September 4, 2025, the remix had been viewed over 780,000 times on his YouTube channel, which has over three million subscribers.
From breathtaking outdoor escapes to immersive cultural encounters and world-class dining, Kigali presents a weekend full of discovery and refinement. This guide invites you to explore the city’s finest offerings, ensuring that every moment you spend here is both enriching and unforgettable.
{{Hike Mount Kigali for Stunning Views
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Kick off your weekend with a hike up Mount Kigali, a rewarding adventure that offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding hills. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply love a good walk in nature, this hike provides a peaceful escape from the city while offering breathtaking views at the summit. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of Kigali from above.
{{Experience Outdoor Thrills at Fazenda Sengha
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Perched high on the slopes of Mount Kigali, Fazenda Sengha is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Originally opened in 2012 as a horseback riding school, it has since grown into one of Kigali’s most popular outdoor recreation spots. The panoramic views alone — stretching across the city and over the rolling hills beyond — are worth the trip, but it’s the variety of activities that truly make Fazenda Sengha unforgettable.
Whether you’re in the mood for an adrenaline rush or a leisurely day out, there’s something here for everyone. Thrill-seekers can take on the zip-line, quad biking trails, or even a bungee ride, while those after a slower pace can enjoy archery, badminton, or scenic horseback rides through the surrounding landscape. Families will find plenty of kid-friendly fun, from trampolines to picnic areas, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
After a busy day of activity, visitors can wind down at the onsite restaurant, which serves hearty local dishes and refreshing drinks — the ideal way to refuel while soaking in the spectacular sunset over Kigali. Just a short drive from the city center, Fazenda Sengha offers a refreshing escape that blends adventure, relaxation, and some of the best views in Rwanda.
{{Escape to Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park
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If you’re looking for a relaxing nature retreat, head to Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park. This 120-hectare park is an urban oasis filled with walking trails, ornamental ponds, and birdwatching opportunities. It’s the perfect place to unwind amidst nature without leaving the city, offering a peaceful escape for a quiet afternoon or a leisurely walk.
{{Relax by Nyarutarama Golf Lake
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For a tranquil escape, visit the Nyarutarama wetland area. While the area is not a traditional lake, it offers a peaceful urban retreat. You can take a leisurely walk along the paths that skirt the wetland, enjoy the calm atmosphere, and observe the many bird species that frequent the area. It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy a quiet moment in nature.
{{Explore Richard Kandt Museum
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The museum is named after Richard Kandt, the first colonial governor of Rwanda under German rule, who governed in the early 1900s. Today, the Kandt House Museum in Kigali is divided into three main sections.
The first section showcases Rwandan life before the colonial era, exploring its social, economic, and political dimensions.
The second section delves into Rwanda’s colonial experience, beginning with the Berlin Conference of 1884, which led to German rule until 1916. After World War I, Belgium took over governance under the League of Nations mandate.
This section also highlights Richard Kandt’s life in Rwanda.
The third section focuses on the history of Kigali, chronicling its evolution before, during, and after the colonial period.
{{Discover Contemporary Art at Inema Arts Center
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Dive into the local art scene at Inema Arts Center, where you can explore a collection of contemporary Rwandan art. Located in Kiyovu, Inema showcases vibrant paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works by local artists.
Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for something unique to do, Inema offers a creative and engaging experience. You can even purchase a piece of art to take home as a reminder of your visit.
{{Savour Delicious Meals at Heaven Restaurant
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When it comes to food, Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel is a must-visit. Located in Kiyovu, this restaurant offers a fusion of Rwandan and international cuisines, served with breathtaking views of Kigali. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Rwandan dish or something more global, Heaven provides a great dining experience in a stunning setting.
{{Taste Local Flavours at Repub Lounge
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For those craving authentic Rwandan flavours, Repub Lounge is the perfect spot. Known for its delicious brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and hearty local meals, Repub Lounge provides a casual yet vibrant atmosphere to enjoy a taste of Kigali’s best street food-inspired dishes. It’s the place to go for a relaxing evening out with friends or family.
{{Enjoy a Plant-Based Meal at The Hut
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For a meal with great views and healthy options, check out The Hut. While the menu offers a range of dishes, from grilled meats to pasta, it’s particularly well-known for its fresh salads and a number of excellent vegetarian and vegan options. Its relaxed atmosphere and focus on quality ingredients make it a great choice for a nutritious and delicious meal.
{{Shop Local at Kimironko Market
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Kigali’s bustling markets are a true reflection of the city’s energy and culture. Kimironko Market, the largest in the city, is a must-see. It’s packed with fresh produce, local crafts, and vibrant textiles. Whether you’re looking to shop for souvenirs or just soak in the local atmosphere, Kimironko offers an authentic Rwandan market experience.
{{Discover Handmade Crafts at Caplaki Craft Village
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For those seeking unique souvenirs or locally made crafts, Caplaki Craft Village is the place to go. This charming village features a range of handmade products, including traditional baskets, wood carvings, and jewelry. Shopping here is a great way to support local artisans while picking up a meaningful gift to remember your time in Kigali.
{{Experience Rwanda’s Coffee Culture at Cave Coffee
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Kigali’s coffee culture is rich and vibrant, with many cafes offering freshly brewed, high-quality coffee. Cave Coffee is a great example of this, offering a cosy ambience and a taste of Rwanda’s famous beans. Other excellent and popular choices include Question Coffee, Inzora Rooftop Café, and Rubia Coffee Roasters, each providing a unique experience for coffee lovers, from stunning city views to a deep dive into the bean-to-cup process.
{{Immerse Yourself in Rwandan Art at Ivuka Arts Studio
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For a hands-on cultural experience, visit Ivuka Arts Studio in Nyarutarama. This creative space showcases the work of local artists, offering visitors the chance to interact with the artists and purchase their works.
The studio also hosts workshops, making it an ideal spot for those interested in learning more about Rwandan art and creativity.
{{Connect with Local Culture at Kigali Cultural Village
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Kigali Cultural Village is the place to be if you want to dive deeper into Rwanda’s cultural heritage. The village hosts a variety of cultural events, including traditional music, dance performances, and artisan markets. It’s a lively and colourful venue that provides visitors with a true sense of Rwandan culture and tradition.
{{Marvel at Modern Architecture at Kigali Convention Centre
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End your weekend with a visit to the KCC, a symbol of Rwanda’s rapid modernisation. This iconic building is known for its unique architecture and serves as a hub for international conferences and events. Even if you’re not attending an event, it’s worth stopping by to admire the building’s striking design and enjoy the surrounding area.
