Category: Entertainment

Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE magazine during the opening night of Call Me Izzy at Broadway’s Studio 54 on June 12, Roberts shared that the couple will be coming to the land of a thousand hills to celebrate nearly two years of marriage.

“We’re actually going to Rwanda,” said Roberts, 64. “Because we wanted to celebrate that way, because our time together has been an adventure. And we thought what better way than to be with the gorillas … in Rwanda?”

The celebrated Good Morning America co-anchor and her wife, a massage therapist from the San Francisco Bay Area, tied the knot in an intimate backyard ceremony in Farmington, Connecticut, in September 2023, following nearly two decades together. They first met on a blind date in 2005 and have been inseparable ever since — a bond strengthened through personal milestones, health challenges, and years of mutual support.

The couple’s visit will come as Rwanda continues to grow its reputation as a premier luxury and eco-tourism destination. From trekking endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to enjoying serene lakefront lodges and vibrant cultural experiences, the country has become a favourite among high-profile visitors seeking meaningful travel.

Roberts and Laign have long described their relationship as rooted in strong communication and mutual respect.

“We’ve had peaks and valleys — many more peaks than valleys,” Roberts told PEOPLE. “Communication” and understanding each other’s backgrounds have been key to their enduring love.

Laign added, “We keep it fresh. You’ve got to keep it fresh, have our little date nights.”

Their anniversary trip also coincides with another milestone, 20 years together as a couple this July.

Roberts, known for her warmth and resilience on GMA, has inspired millions through her openness about overcoming breast cancer and a rare bone marrow disorder. Laign, too, is a cancer survivor, having battled breast cancer in recent years. Their mutual support during these health challenges has only deepened their bond.

With this upcoming trip, the couple joins a growing list of global celebrities drawn to Rwanda’s unique blend of wildlife, culture, and serenity. Other celebrities who have visited Rwanda recently include John Legend and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, who were in the country in February for the Move Afrika concert series.

Whether exploring lush rainforests or enjoying quiet moments together in Kigali, Roberts and Laign’s Rwandan escape promises to be a celebration not just of their marriage but of love, resilience, and shared adventures.

The announcement, made by the Embassy of Rwanda in the United States, confirms the two artists will join afrobeat sensation The Ben for a much-anticipated concert on July 5. The trio is expected to bring high energy and unforgettable performances to the main stage.

The celebration kicks off on July 4 with a powerful performance by cultural icon Massamba Intore, setting the tone for a weekend of music, unity, and pride. Gospel favourite Meddy will close out the event on July 6, leading a worship and praise session as attendees wrap up the three-day gathering on a spiritual high.

This year’s edition will be hosted at the Irving Convention Center in Texas, marking the return of Rwanda Convention USA after a five-year break—the last one being held in 2019.

The convention offers Rwandans living across the U.S. a vibrant space to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate both Rwanda’s Liberation Day and American Independence Day, which are both commemorated on July 4.

Speaking to IGIHE, Kitoko shared that while he has not set a specific date, his return is imminent.

“Yes, I’ve been preparing for it. I want to return. It’s been 12 years since I left home. I miss making music in Rwanda, but more importantly, there are personal and professional projects I want to pursue there. At any moment, you might hear that I’ve made the move,” he stated.

Despite being based in the UK, Kitoko affirmed that he remains musically active. With more flexibility in his schedule compared to previous years, when he balanced his academic commitments with business, he has found renewed energy for his music career.

Kitoko recently released a new single titled “In Love”, adding to his catalog of popular tracks that began with his 2008 breakout song “Ikiragi.” His early success quickly established him as a leading voice in Rwanda’s music scene.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Kitoko has continued to invest in his education. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Politics from South Bank University in 2022 and later enrolled in a Master’s program at London Metropolitan University.

The artist is also scheduled to perform at the upcoming Rwanda Liberation Day celebration in Belgium on July 4, 2025.

Slated for June 28–29, 2025, the event promises good vibes, hot mixes, and unforgettable moments—but strictly for the 20-and-over revellers.

According to promotional posters, the concert will be off-limits to anyone under the age of 20.

Speaking to IGIHE, DJ Marnaud explained the age restriction is all about ensuring safety and comfort, as the venue is outside of Kigali and will require attendees to stay overnight.

“We’re keeping it grown and responsible,” he said. “Since it’s outside the city and people will need to sleep over, we felt it was important to limit access to adults only.”

The weekend lineup features more than just DJ Marnaud behind the decks. Crowd-favourite DJ Toxxyk will be joining the party, along with Tanzanian rising star Assumanii, better known on the scene as DJ Allybi.

And the music won’t stop there. Once the Lake Muhazi party winds down, DJ Marnaud and DJ Toxxyk will dive straight into preparations for the highly anticipated Toxxyk Xperience, set to electrify Rubavu on July 4, 2025.

The announcement comes as the artist gears up for the MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival, where he is among seven artists confirmed to headline the nationwide tour.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, the ‘Mowana’ crooner revealed that the celebration will go beyond the main tour.

“Besides the concert I’m planning in Kigali, I’m also considering taking the celebration across different countries. Spending 20 years making music that people enjoy is not something I take lightly. I want to connect with my fans and celebrate together,” he said.

While he didn’t disclose a specific date for the Kigali concert, King James assured fans that plans are in motion and that more details will be shared after the MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival wraps up.

King James joins a stellar line-up for this year’s MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival, including Riderman, Juno Kizigenza, Ariel Wayz, Kevin Kade, Kivumbi King, and Nel Ngabo.

The festival, known for showcasing homegrown talent, will tour multiple districts, offering fans a chance to enjoy live performances across the country.

The tour is set to kick off on July 5, 2025, in Musanze, before moving to Gicumbi on July 12 and Nyagatare on July 19. It will then head to Ngoma on July 26, followed by Huye on August 2. The performances will continue in Rusizi on August 9, with the final show taking place in Rubavu on August 16, 2025.

The father-son duo, who’ve become social media darlings in Uganda and beyond, were the headline act at the club’s 10th anniversary bash.

Known for their electric chemistry and synchronised dance moves, the two had the crowd screaming, laughing, and dancing along in what can only be described as a joyful explosion of music and moves.

What stunned many Kigali revellers, and continues to wow TikTok and Instagram timelines, is the seamless bond between Dexta and his dad.

While most rappers hype up their crews or dancers, Dexta’s hype man is his own father, and he absolutely owns the stage. From slick footwork to playful grooves, the pair performed like seasoned showmen with decades of practice (and maybe some father-son telepathy).

With their popularity rising across East Africa, Dexta and his dad are eyeing more stages and bigger crowds.

Beyond the stage, Dexta is also a skilled music producer, crafting beats for fellow artists and cooking up his own hits — the same ones he and his dad tear up the stage with.

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The news was confirmed to IGIHE by Junior Giti, the artist’s manager.

The singer’s mother had been hospitalised at Nyarugenge Hospital for several days. According to Giti, she had expressed signs of recovery just hours before her passing.

“She had been unwell for some time. In fact, we spoke with her last night and she mentioned feeling better and hoped to be discharged in the morning. We were completely shocked by the news of her sudden death,” Giti shared.

In recent weeks, Chriss Eazy has featured his mother in a series of heartfelt conversations on his YouTube channel, where they openly discussed family, music, and his upbringing.

The episodes offered fans a rare glimpse into the artist’s personal life and the strong bond he shared with his mother.

One particularly touching moment was her revelation that her favourite song by her son was “Inana.” She expressed immense pride in watching him rise to stardom and fulfil his dream of becoming one of Rwanda’s celebrated artists.

Reflecting on his birth during one of their final recorded conversations, she spoke about how he had to be admitted to neonatal care shortly after delivery.

She went on to describe how every time she looked at him, she saw a fighter. Someone who had battled to survive from day one.

The emotional exchange now serves as a lasting memory of their deep connection and her enduring belief in her son’s resilience and talent.

Lame, 25, who holds Italian citizenship and is best known for his signature silent TikTok videos, was stopped at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on June 6.

ICE confirmed to AFP that the influencer, born Seringe Khabane Lame, had entered the United States on April 30 and had remained beyond the legal duration of his visa.

The world’s most-followed TikToker, with more than 162 million followers, was released the same day and granted “voluntary departure” from the United States.

He has since left the country, though he has not publicly addressed the incident as of Saturday afternoon.

Lame’s brief detention comes amid a broader crackdown on immigration violations under President Donald Trump, who returned to office in January and has since pursued an aggressive immigration enforcement agenda. Some of those measures have faced legal challenges in US courts.

Born in Senegal in 2000 and raised in Italy, Lame skyrocketed to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic after losing his factory job. His wordless, universally relatable skits, often mocking overly complex online “life hacks” with deadpan expressions and a signature hand gesture, made him a viral star and cultural phenomenon.

Despite his silent persona, Lame’s influence has been anything but quiet. In recent years, he has served as a juror on Italia’s Got Talent, made cameo appearances in Hollywood films like Bad Boys: Ride or Die, and even voiced a character in the Italian dub of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

In 2024, he debuted his unscripted comedy series Khaby Is Coming to America on Tubi – an ironic title given recent events.

In 2025, Lame was named a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, further cementing his status as a global figure whose humour transcends borders. His partnerships with major brands such as Hugo Boss, Fortnite, and Walmart have helped him amass a net worth estimated between $16 million and $20 million.

The highly anticipated event united Bralirwa’s partners and football fans for a premium celebration of sport, entertainment, and world-class hospitality.

The high-stakes showdown between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan unfolded on big screens in a premium setting, as guests enjoyed the full Heineken treatment, from crisp, ice-cold beers to gourmet cuisine, all curated for an unforgettable fan experience.

As the match kept fans on the edge of their seats, the energy reached a peak with the final whistle and trophy presentation, capturing the spirit and emotion of Europe’s biggest club football night.

Paris Saint-Germain’s emphatic 5–0 victory over Inter Milan not only thrilled the crowd but also marked the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title, making the moment even more historic. But the night was far from over.

An exclusive afterparty turned the event into a full-fledged celebration, featuring thrilling live performances by the Symphony Band and Moogisha, alongside DJs Lamper and Khizz Beats, who kept the crowd energised late into the night.

The Kigali viewing party was the climax of a series of pre-final activations rolled out by Heineken across key outlets in the city. The consumer engagements gave lucky fans the chance to win exclusive merchandise and coveted invitations to the main event, building up momentum and excitement for the final.

Speaking about the impact of the event, Martine Gatabazi, Marketing Director at Bralirwa, noted:

“The UEFA Champions League is more than just a game. It’s a moment that brings people together. Through unique experiences like this, Heineken continues to reinforce its position as the undisputed international premium beer in Rwanda. We’re proud to deliver moments that matter for our consumers and partners alike.”

From start to finish, the event showcased Heineken’s unmatched ability to blend sport, lifestyle, and premium experiences, raising the bar for branded events in Rwanda — and leaving guests with memories to last well beyond the final whistle.

Scroll down for exclusive photos from the night.

Billed as “Jose Chameleone Live in Kigali,” the concert marked the artist’s long-awaited return to Rwanda after a health-related hiatus.

Chameleone, who has ruled the East African music scene for over 25 years, was joined on stage by his brother Weasel and Rwanda’s music veteran Rafiki Coga Style, creating a night of celebration that bridged generations.

Originally slated for earlier this year, the show was postponed after Chameleone travelled to the U.S. for medical treatment, spending five months recovering. But the buzz never died down. The moment tickets went on sale, they were snapped up in record time by fans eager to relive the golden days of East African music.

And when the night finally arrived, Kigali Universe was the place to be. A packed house of devoted fans, many of whom grew up on Chameleone’s music in the early 2000s, filled the venue to capacity. DJs Lexx Lexx, Niyem, and RY kept the energy high while MC Bior hyped up the crowd with effortless charisma.

The show kicked off with a powerful set by Rafiki Coga, a pioneer of Rwanda’s “Coga Style.” Performing fan favourites like “Gikomando” and “Bwongoza 4” (a collab with Jay Polly and Riderman), Rafiki was met with loud cheers.

In a touching moment, co-host Lucky, alongside Power FM’s Iradukunda Bertrand, paused the show to honour Rafiki as one of the trailblazers of the Rwandan music scene. Fans raised their hands in solidarity and respect.

Then came the man of the hour. As Chameleone hit the stage, the entire atmosphere shifted. The crowd jumped to their feet, the nostalgia kicked in, and hit after hit rang out in full live-band glory.

From timeless anthems like “Valu Valu,” “Tubonge,” and “Nkoleki” (with Melody), to newer tracks like “Agatako” (performed alongside DJ Pius), Chameleone showed why he remains one of the region’s most magnetic performers.

The surprises kept coming.

Midway through the show, Weasel joined Chameleone on stage, sparking loud cheers. The pair performed “Bomboclat” and “Lwaki Onumya,” the latter dedicated to their late music partner Radio, whom Weasel honoured with a heartfelt tribute:

“Rest in peace, brother Radio.”

But it was Weasel’s romantic declaration to his Rwandan lover Sandra Teta that melted hearts.

Before performing Good Life’s “Breath Away,” he turned to the crowd and said:

“Do you know why this song means so much to me? Because Kigali gave me the most beautiful woman, Sandra Teta Ndayigutuye. And there are so many beautiful women here tonight.”

He ended by affirming the Mayanja family’s deep love for Rwanda, revealing that his visit would include a family introduction at Sandra Teta’s home. The couple, who share two daughters, have been together for seven years.

The crowd chanted for more, refusing to let the night end. Fans across every age group sang along, danced, and relived their youth with every beat.

The concert was graced by some of Rwanda’s biggest names in entertainment, including Massamba Intore, Jules Sentore, Teta Diana, Platini P, Ishimwe Clement, Christopher, Junior Rumaga, David Bayingana, Shemi, Kenny Sol, and MC Ange K. Umulisa, the ex-wife of DJ Pius.

Chameleone’s return to Kigali came after a long hiatus. His last performance in the Rwandan capital was in 2018 at DJ Pius’ ‘Iwacu’ album launch.

{{Video: Rukimbira Divin

Photos : Key Cyubahiro}}