It appeared there were at least two people who were “probably shooting at each other,” Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said, adding that police are still searching for the suspects and advise the public to avoid the surrounding areas.
Toledo Police Department officers responded to a report of a person shot in an area near the Old West End Festival at approximately 5:37 p.m. local time (2137 GMT) and discovered multiple shooting victims. The injured were taken to hospitals for treatment.
The Old West End Festival is a two-day event featuring live music, food markets, house tours and shopping.
At least 12 people were shot Saturday afternoon near a community festival in Toledo, U.S. state of Ohio, with two in critical condition.
Speaking during a press briefing on June 6, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva said Rwanda has strengthened surveillance, prevention and response systems to protect public health while ensuring that economic and social activities continue uninterrupted.
“The Ebola outbreak continues to be reported in the eastern region of Africa. However, Rwanda has strengthened its prevention measures and monitoring, and we are confident in protecting the lives of our citizens without disrupting economic activities and the normal social life of the population,” he said.
Nsengiyumva noted that the Ministry of Health and the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) are closely tracking developments in the region and will continue updating the public on preventive measures. He urged citizens to remain vigilant, observe good hygiene practices and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with the disease.
Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana said Rwanda’s preparedness efforts are anchored on five pillars: public awareness and communication, surveillance, detection capacity, response capability, and human resources.
He said the country has continued to strengthen systems across all these areas, with a particular focus on prevention and early detection.
“The goal is prevention; we do not want to be in a situation where we are reacting after the fact,” he said, adding that health authorities closely follow developments in neighbouring countries, particularly in areas near Rwanda’s borders.
According to Nsanzimana, Rwanda has the capacity to rapidly identify suspected cases, including at border points, with test results often available within six hours. He also highlighted ongoing simulation exercises and training for healthcare workers, emergency responders and communication teams to ensure a coordinated response.
The current regional outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, making surveillance, early detection and rapid containment critical to preventing its spread.
According to recent health data, the Democratic Republic of Congo has reported 452 confirmed cases and at least 82 deaths, while Uganda has recorded 19 confirmed cases and 2 deaths, including infections in Kampala, Wakiso and western border areas. Health authorities say ongoing transmission in neighbouring countries continues to require heightened vigilance across the region.
Speaking during a press briefing on June 6, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva said Rwanda has strengthened surveillance, prevention and response systems to protect public health while ensuring that economic and social activities continue uninterrupted.Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana (left) said Rwanda’s preparedness efforts are anchored on five pillars: public awareness and communication, surveillance, detection capacity, response capability, and human resources.
A statement issued by the military said Harb was killed in an airstrike carried out last week.
The military said Harb oversaw the assembly and deployment of explosive devices intended to target Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, accusing him of involvement in attacks against Israeli forces dating back to the 2006 war with Israel.
It added that the Israeli Air Force struck and destroyed a rocket launcher overnight that had been used by Hezbollah militants to fire rockets toward Israeli troops operating in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah has not commented on the Israeli claims.
An Israeli Air Force Apache attack helicopter flies above the Lebanon border during an IDF operation on June 4, 2026. The Israel Defense Forces said Friday that it had killed the head of Hezbollah’s engineering unit, Abed Harb.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in environmental protection, flood mitigation, biodiversity conservation, improving air quality, and creating new recreational spaces for residents.
The wetlands under restoration include Gikondo (162 hectares), Nyabugogo (131 hectares), Kibumba (68 hectares), Rwampara (65 hectares), and Rugenge-Rwintare (65 hectares). Together, they cover a total area of 491 hectares and are expected to significantly transform Kigali’s urban landscape.
In a statement issued on Thursday, MININFRA announced that implementation of the first phase of the project had reached 94 percent.
Information obtained by IGIHE indicates that the remaining six percent of the work includes the construction of visitor information facilities that will be used by staff assisting tourists and visitors, as well as final landscaping and beautification activities.
While overall progress stands at 94 percent, implementation levels vary across the five wetlands. Rwampara is closest to completion, while Nyabugogo remains the least advanced due to ongoing works related to the development of lakefront areas.
Construction of sports facilities planned within some of the wetlands has also advanced considerably.
The entire project is expected to be completed by August 2026.
The restoration works are being carried out by Real Contractors Limited in partnership with NPD, another construction company operating in Rwanda.
Distinct identities for each wetland
Each wetland has been assigned a unique theme and purpose.
Gikondo Wetland is being developed as a tourism and leisure destination, showcasing Rwanda’s natural attractions. The site will feature libraries, restaurants, and dedicated relaxation areas.
Rugenge-Rwintare Wetland will host a five-hectare water reservoir that collects runoff from the Rwampara and Gikondo wetlands. The site is intended to highlight Rwanda’s progress in environmental conservation.
Kibumba Wetland is being developed around fisheries and aquatic ecosystems. It will include a series of ponds, flower gardens, and an exhibition facility dedicated to Rwanda’s fishing sector.
Meanwhile, Nyabugogo Wetland is being positioned as a center for research and education on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection.
Supporting climate resilience and urban well-being
Beyond their environmental role, the wetlands are expected to help address flooding in Kigali, preserve biodiversity, and naturally filter water flowing into the ecosystem.
Once completed, the wetlands will feature a combined 61.5 kilometres of pedestrian and cycling paths. Gikondo will have 16.9 kilometres of trails, Rugenge-Rwintare 15.5 kilometres, and Rwampara 10 kilometres.
The sites are also being designed as recreational and sports hubs to provide residents with spaces for leisure and physical activity.
Planned sports facilities
Kibumba Wetland will accommodate two football pitches, while Gikondo will have one and Rwampara two.
Basketball facilities will include two courts at Kibumba, one at Gikondo, and one at Rugenge-Rwintare.
Volleyball infrastructure will comprise two courts at Kibumba, one at Gikondo, and one at Rugenge-Rwintare.
Handball courts will be established at both Gikondo and Rwampara, with one court at each site.
With completion targeted for August 2026, the restored wetlands are expected to become key environmental, educational, tourism, and recreational assets for Kigali.
To address these challenges, the Rwanda Internet Community and Technology Alliance (RICTA), in partnership with the Internet Society (ISOC) Rwanda Chapter, NetFella, and the Internet Society Foundation, has launched an Online Trust and Safety Training programme aimed at equipping women entrepreneurs with the skills needed to navigate the digital space safely.
The first cohort of the programme graduated on Thursday, June 4, at the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK), having received practical training on online safety, data protection, cybersecurity, responsible use of social media, and identifying online scams.
The four-day training forms part of a broader initiative targeting 500 beneficiaries, including women entrepreneurs and refugees in Mahama Refugee Camp, as Rwanda continues its journey towards a digital economy.
Speaking during the event, Geoffrey Karegeya, Business Development and Partnership Manager at RICTA, said the programme responds to the growing need for online safety among business owners who increasingly rely on digital platforms for commerce.
“We have trained more than 500 women through our digital marketing programme since 2022. We realised that as more women move their businesses online, they also become more exposed to cyber risks. This training equips them with the skills to identify scammers, protect themselves, and conduct online transactions safely,” he said.
RICTA is the official registry responsible for managing and administering the .rw country-code top-level domain (ccTLD). Formed in 2005, RICTA operates as a not-for-profit organisation representing the Rwandan internet community, with a mandate granted by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA).
Karegeya noted that many participants had previously experienced online fraud or encountered suspicious transactions, highlighting the importance of strengthening digital trust and safety skills among internet users.
The initiative builds on efforts that began in 2020 under the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter, initially targeting young people before expanding to women entrepreneurs. RICTA joined the effort in 2022 through its digital marketing programme for women in business.
According to Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter, the training comes at a critical time as more people gain internet access and increasingly depend on digital services.
“With the rise of artificial intelligence, social media use, and online commerce, new risks continue to emerge. We are seeing cases of financial fraud, identity theft, misinformation, disinformation, and data breaches. Women entrepreneurs are among the groups most exposed because of the multiple responsibilities they balance while running businesses,” he said.
Participants were trained on how to verify the authenticity of websites, protect personal and financial information, identify phishing attempts, and understand Rwanda’s legal framework on data protection and online security.
Among the graduates was Delphine Nkusi, owner of Rwanda Blossom Ltd, an online trading business dealing in coffee, fresh vegetables, and other agricultural products.
Nkusi said the training provided practical knowledge that will help her safeguard both her business and personal information online.
“I learned about online safety, cyberbullying prevention, privacy and data protection, and how to identify scams and fraud. Before this training, I was not aware of some of the laws that protect internet users in Rwanda,” she said.
She also shared her experience of being targeted through a fraudulent bank transaction, an incident that reinforced the importance of cybersecurity awareness.
“Fortunately, the money was recovered, but the experience showed me how vulnerable we can be online. This training has given me skills that will help me avoid similar situations in the future,” she added.
The broader programme will now move to Mahama Refugee Camp in Kirehe District from 8-11 June and Karongi District from 15-18 June, where additional participants will receive training through a community-based approach supported by trained facilitators.
Organisers expect to complete the training of all 500 beneficiaries by October, coinciding with Cyber Security Awareness Month.
Beyond improving digital literacy, the programme aims to foster a culture of responsible internet use, enabling participants to confidently leverage digital technologies while protecting themselves from online threats.
The first cohort received certificates on Thursday, June 4, at the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK) after concluding a four-day training programme on online safety, data protection, cybersecurity, responsible use of social media, and identifying online scams. The four-day training forms part of a broader initiative targeting 500 beneficiaries, including women entrepreneurs and refugees in Mahama Refugee Camp, as Rwanda continues its journey towards a digital economy.Participants were trained on how to verify the authenticity of websites, protect personal and financial information, identify phishing attempts, and understand Rwanda’s legal framework on data protection and online security.Organisers expect to complete the training of all 500 beneficiaries by October, coinciding with Cyber Security Awareness Month.Benie Umwari from RICTA explains the importance of maintaining an online presence and conducting business safely in the digital space. Jules Nizeyimana, the lead instructor, engages participants in hands-on exercises.
The six-month strategy, spanning June to November 2026, aims to mobilise 518 million U.S. dollars to scale up rapid detection, cross-border surveillance, and containment measures across the region.
The intervention follows the declaration of the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the WHO on May 16, 2026, a day after both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda confirmed localised transmission.
Currently, there are no licensed vaccines or approved therapeutics specifically targeting the Bundibugyo species of the virus, making rigorous public health infrastructure and early symptomatic care the primary lines of defence.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, health authorities have documented 381 confirmed cases and 64 deaths across 25 health zones in three provinces. The vast majority of the caseload is concentrated in Ituri province, which accounts for 359 cases and 50 deaths, while North Kivu has recorded 19 cases and South Kivu has registered three.
Frontline teams in the country are currently monitoring more than 4,000 active contacts alongside 116 suspected cases under investigation.
The virus has also crossed international borders into neighbouring Uganda, where 15 confirmed cases and one death have been reported, primarily concentrated within urban pockets of Kampala and Wakiso. At least 12 individuals remain hospitalised under strict isolation protocols, while response teams track 668 identified contacts.
Operational challenges in the field remain high, particularly in eastern DRC, where response efforts are consistently complicated by localised insecurity, population displacement, and dense informal mining networks.
Addressing a joint press conference, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasised that control depends entirely on a unified mechanism.
He noted that the only way to beat this outbreak is through close partnership under the leadership of the affected nations, guided by a single plan, budget, and team.
He added that containing Ebola relies heavily on political commitment, sustained financing, and community trust, warning that without active local participation, contact tracing falters and transmission continues.
The operational framework coordinates efforts under a unified “One Response” approach. Resources from the budget will be utilised to strengthen emergency coordination, improve diagnostic laboratory capacities, secure local clinic infection controls, and optimise logistics.
To prevent a wider regional fallout, international partners have already begun accelerating regional logistics, including a 45-ton delivery of emergency medical cargo, diagnostics, and personal protective equipment mobilised via regional coordinating channels.
Africa CDC Director-General Dr. Jean Kaseya noted that because Ebola moves fast, the continent must move faster.
He stated that the joint plan provides a clear framework to act with speed and unity to save lives, support affected states, and shield neighbouring communities. The strategy also outlines critical readiness protocols for 10 adjacent, high-risk priority countries to ensure early detection if the virus spreads further.
While health officials have urged member states to increase screening and public health measures at points of entry, the WHO currently assesses the global risk as low. The agency maintains a high alert status at national and regional levels but continues to advise against any international travel or trade restrictions.
The operational framework coordinates efforts under a unified “One Response” approach. Resources from the budget will be utilised to strengthen emergency coordination, improve diagnostic laboratory capacities, secure local clinic infection controls, and optimise logistics.
The announcement was made during an Extraordinary Session of the African Union Specialized Technical Committee on Youth, Culture and Sports, held virtually, according to Bernard Patrick Ogwel, general secretary of Uganda’s National Council of Sports (NCS).
“We are very excited about this development because this means that Uganda will once again have the opportunity to showcase her abilities in hosting an international event,” Ogwel told Xinhua on Friday.
Uganda beat Nigeria in the bidding process to earn the right to host the Games. Kenya is the only other East African nation to have previously staged the event.
Uganda’s bid was spearheaded by State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang and centered on the newly built Hoima City Stadium and the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
“This is very good news that we have won the bid to host the 2031 African Games. I want to thank the President of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the government for the support that enabled us to put in a strong bid and win the hosting rights,” Ogwang said.
The announcement comes as Uganda, together with Kenya and Tanzania, is preparing to co-host the 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the first time the three East African countries will jointly stage Africa’s flagship football tournament.
The African Games, formerly known as the All-Africa Games, are held every four years and are organized by the African Union in collaboration with the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa and the Association of African Sports Confederations.
The 15th edition of the Games in Uganda is expected to bring together athletes from across the continent to compete in a wide range of disciplines.
Uganda beat Nigeria in the bidding process to earn the right to host the Games. Kenya is the only other East African nation to have previously staged the event.
As Rwanda continues its journey towards a digital and knowledge-based economy, the need for graduates who possess both academic knowledge and practical workplace experience has never been greater. Through these partnerships, MTN Rwanda is reaffirming its commitment to developing future-ready talent by creating pathways that connect learning with meaningful career opportunities.
The partnerships, signed on Thursday, June 4, 2026, establish a framework for cooperation focused on career readiness, workplace learning opportunities, talent development, and skills enhancement. Through this collaboration, students and graduates from the University of Rwanda and Kepler College will gain increased exposure to industry experiences while MTN Rwanda supports young people with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to contribute to Rwanda’s digital and economic transformation.
“At MTN, we believe that Rwanda’s future depends on investing in its young people. These partnerships with the University of Rwanda and Kepler College reflect our commitment to developing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals by creating meaningful pathways from education into the workplace,” stated Monzer Ali, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Rwanda.
“We aim to equip young talent with the practical skills and experiences needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy, and this may be done through internships, mentorship programmes, industry engagements, and mainly through our Global Graduate Programme, which is a Group-wide initiative designed to accelerate the development of high-potential young professionals through structured rotations, mentorship, and hands-on exposure across different business functions.”
Under the agreements, the institutions will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including career readiness programmes, guest lectures, mentorship sessions, workplace exposure opportunities, internships, industrial attachments, graduate placements, and targeted skills development interventions. The partnerships will also facilitate the sharing of labour market insights to help ensure academic programmes remain responsive to industry needs and evolving workforce demands.
Speaking on behalf of the University of Rwanda, Dr. Ndikumana Raymond, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration, said:
“The University of Rwanda is committed to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also equipped with the practical skills required by today’s labour market. Our partnership with MTN Rwanda provides an important platform for students to gain industry exposure, strengthen their professional capabilities, and better position themselves for success in Rwanda’s growing digital economy. Together, we are helping to build a workforce that can drive innovation and national development.”
The partnerships have been designed to also support MTN Rwanda’s commitment to talent inclusion by creating equitable opportunities for young women and persons with disabilities to access workplace learning, mentorship, internships, and career development programmes. By intentionally promoting diverse participation and reducing barriers to employment, the collaboration seeks to contribute to a more inclusive workforce that reflects Rwanda’s diversity and unlocks the full potential of its talent pool.
“Through this partnership with MTN Rwanda, we are investing in the next generation of innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers who will create value, drive economic transformation, and strengthen Rwanda’s competitiveness on the continent and beyond. This is the kind of collaboration that turns potential into progress,” said Prof. Baylie Damtie Yeshita, Vice-Chancellor of Kepler College.
MTN Rwandacell Plc (MTN Rwanda), the country’s leading mobile telecommunications provider, has been operating in Rwanda since 1998. Over the years, the company has consistently invested in expanding and upgrading its network infrastructure while driving the rollout of innovative digital solutions that support national development.
As Rwanda’s number one network, MTN Rwanda offers a wide range of services to both individual and corporate customers, including tailored voice and data packages. The company says it remains committed to delivering a modern, connected experience for all users, guided by its ambition to lead the advancement of a dynamic digital future where everyone can benefit from inclusive connectivity.
The partnerships establish a framework for cooperation focused on career readiness, workplace learning opportunities, talent development, and skills enhancement. Through the collaboration, students and graduates from the University of Rwanda and Kepler College will gain increased exposure to industry experiences while MTN Rwanda supports young people with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to contribute to Rwanda’s digital and economic transformation.
Gen Tshiwewe was arrested in early July 2025, seven months after serving as military advisor to President Félix Tshisekedi. He had been appointed to that position following his removal as Chief of Staff in December 2024.
He was detained alongside Gen Maj Maurice Nyembo, his former chief of staff, and several other officers, including Lt Col Adelart Mwiza, who was responsible for his personal security. The reasons for their arrest were not initially disclosed.
When Gen Tshiwewe was brought before the court, the military prosecution, led by Lt Gen Lucien René Likulia Bakumi, confirmed that his case file includes eight other senior officers and one civilian, Pascal Nyembo Muyumba.
The co-accused officers include Gen John Numbi; Brig Gen Chinyabuuma Pascal Kamukinde, both currently in exile; Gen Maj Nyembo; Brig Gen John Ngoy Kabila; Brig Gen John Sangwa Muhemedi; Col Guy Mukombozi Zahinda; Col Pathy Sangwa Lumbu; and Col Christophe Tshibangu Kenge.
The prosecution alleges that Gen Tshiwewe, alongside the senior officers and the civilian suspect, was involved in a coordinated plan to overthrow President Félix Tshisekedi’s government. The charges include treason, incitement of soldiers to disobey lawful orders, and illegal possession of firearms.
According to the prosecution, the alleged plot to remove President Tshisekedi from power was developed between 2020 and July 2025, when the suspects were arrested.
Gen Tshiwewe is said to have been recruited into the alleged scheme by Gen Maj Maurice Nyembo, a close associate since 2018. The two are reported to have held frequent nighttime meetings, allegedly attended by other FARDC officers opposed to the current administration.
As the alleged plan evolved, Gen Tshiwewe is accused of relying on several senior officers, including one Brigadier General and two Colonels, to advance its objectives.
On July 9, 2025, security forces searched Gen Tshiwewe’s residence in the Gombe commune of Kinshasa, where they reportedly discovered a significant cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles, RPG launchers, PKM machine guns, more than 4,300 rounds of ammunition, and grenades.
The prosecution argues that the quantity and nature of the weapons indicate they were not intended for personal protection, but were instead linked to the alleged plan to overthrow the government.
Pascal Nyembo, who is currently in exile, is accused of coordinating the alleged network, issuing instructions to participants, and providing financial support.
Gen John Numbi, a former Inspector General of the FARDC and former national police chief, is accused of inciting soldiers and police officers to disobey President Tshisekedi and support efforts to remove him from power, including through the use of social media platforms.
The prosecution further alleges that Gen Numbi recruited Brig Gen Sangwa into the scheme and provided substantial funding for its execution, including a reported USD 842,320 transferred to Gen Maj Nyembo’s account.
Regarding Brig Gen John Ngoy Kabila, prosecutors state that he acted as a liaison between networks linked to former President Joseph Kabila, who led the DRC from 2001 to 2019, and individuals allegedly involved in the plot.
The case further alleges that Brig Gen Ngoy received instructions from Pascal Nyembo to assist senior officers, including Lt Gen Philémon Yav Irung, Gen Zelwa Katanga, and former senior police officer Christian Kenga Kenga, in escaping detention so they could join the alleged network.
Brig Gen Ngoy is also accused of participating in discussions in which he allegedly expressed sympathy for Joseph Kabila and supported the idea of overthrowing the government, drawing parallels with the 2021 coup in Guinea-Conakry.
Gen Tshiwewe was arrested in early July 2025, seven months after serving as military advisor to President Félix Tshisekedi. Gen Maj Nyembo is accused of recruiting Gen Tshiwewe into a plot to remove President Tshisekedi from power.Gen John Numbi, who fled the country in 2021, is accused of sending funds to support the plan.Among those brought before the court, Gen Numbi, Brig Gen Chinyabuuma, and Pascal Nyembo were absent as they are in exile.
Known for his versatility as a singer, songwriter, producer, and accomplished drummer, Kitaka is signed to Uganda’s Swangz Avenue and has built a reputation for blending Afro-fusion, soul, reggae, and dancehall with a distinctive live-instrument feel shaped by his early background in church bands and live sessions.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Kitaka said his frequent visits to Kigali, this being his fourth time, have made the city a place that naturally inspires calm and creativity.
“Kigali is a calm place… every time I come here I want to be calm. I have so many friends here, and I feel like I’m also here for the music, to collaborate and join forces so we can push music from Uganda to Rwanda and Rwanda to Uganda,” he said.
Known for his versatility as a singer, songwriter, producer, and accomplished drummer, Kitaka is signed to Uganda’s Swangz Avenue.
Beyond music, the artist also expressed admiration for Kigali’s environment, praising its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and scenic hills.
At the centre of his Kigali visit is “Masterpiece,” a collaboration with Nel Ngabo that Kitaka says came together naturally from the moment the two artists met.
The track, whose official video premiered on Friday, June 5, was born after Nel brought the initial idea and invited Kitaka to add his verse.
“Nel wrote the song and brought it to me to put the verse. He thought I was the best person to have a vision about the masterpiece he had created,” Kitaka explained.
He added that their first meeting sparked immediate creative chemistry.
“The first time I met Nel, he came where I was staying with Clement and the energy just flowed by itself. It was like two kings meeting, and our way forward was the masterpiece we created.”
A song inspired by admiration and beauty
According to Kitaka, “Masterpiece” is not just a title, but a concept inspired by admiration for a special person.
“Masterpiece is a song we wrote for that one special person who is a masterpiece, who is above everything,” he said.
He revealed that the song celebrates beauty and uniqueness, while the accompanying video continues that theme.
“The video concept is more of us singing for this woman who is the masterpiece —beautiful, extraordinary, above everything.”
Shot in Rwanda, the video is described by Kitaka as simple and family-friendly, aligning with his preference for authentic and uncluttered visual storytelling.
Building East African musical bridges
Beyond the single, Kitaka emphasised the importance of cross-border collaborations in shaping a stronger East African music industry.
“Collaborations make artists travel places and voices travel places. If I’m only doing well in Uganda, I’ve made it in Uganda. But when I cross the border and collaborate with a voice like Nel’s, we build a fan base together,” he said.
He noted that such partnerships allow audiences to discover new artists across borders, strengthening regional unity through music.
Elijah Kitaka and Nel Ngabo dropped their Masterpiece official video on Friday, June 5, 2026.
Kitaka also hinted at upcoming projects with several East African artists, including Rwandan and Kenyan acts.
He mentioned collaborations with celebrated Rwandan artists Kivumbi and Mike Kayihura, as well as a broader regional project.
“With Mike, we have an EP we’re trying to do, along with some artists in Kenya like Ben Soul. It’s going to be a big project called East African Boys. It has different sounds and different energies,” he said.
From church drums to international stages
Reflecting on his journey, Kitaka traced his musical foundation back to church, where he first learned drums and other instruments. Before fully transitioning into music, he also built a career in IT and technology, balancing his passion for music with his professional path.
“Drumming was the foundation. I was one of the best drummers in Uganda around 2015 up to COVID. Even then, I was writing music and directing bands,” he said.
He later transitioned into singing and production, expanding his career into multiple creative roles while maintaining his instrumental roots.
Today, Kitaka is not only known for studio hits such as “Dawa,” “Nothing,” and “Tutu Mama” featuring Vinka, but also for his strong live performance presence across Africa, including festivals such as Blankets and Wine (Uganda), Amani Festival (DRC), Ongala Festival (Tanzania), and Visa for Music (Morocco).
To emerging talents, Kitaka encouraged consistency, humility, and resilience.
“Be humble, be ambitious, respect one another. Practice makes perfect. There will be challenges, but they show if you’re really serious. Use social media, push yourself. The day will come when someone notices you,” he advised.
As “Masterpiece” takes over the airwaves, Kitaka says fans should expect a vibrant East African collaboration driven by chemistry, simplicity, and emotion.
