The group travelled to South Korea on June 27, 2026, with the training programme officially kicking off on June 28. It is scheduled to run until July 11, 2026, and is taking place in the city of Busan.
The initiative forms part of the “Capacity Building for Film and Video Industry in Rwanda” programme, which seeks to enhance the competitiveness of Rwanda’s creative sector through international exposure and professional development.
It is being implemented through a partnership between the Busan Metropolitan City, Busan Global City Foundation (BGCF), the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and CIAT. The programme focuses on knowledge exchange and supporting the growth of Rwanda’s film industry.
Participants are engaging in practical and theoretical sessions covering film production, directing, modern audiovisual technologies, industry management, and approaches to building international collaborations within the creative sector.
Busan, one of South Korea’s leading cultural hubs, is globally known for hosting the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), one of Asia’s most influential film events.
The training is expected to contribute to the long-term development of Rwanda’s film industry by equipping practitioners with updated skills, global perspectives, and professional networks.
15 Rwandan film actors, including Clapton Kibonge and Siperansiya, are in South Korea for a professional film training programme
The appearance quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the ceremony, which was held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
The Grammy-winning rapper took to the stage with a dynamic performance that showcased tracks from her latest album Am I the Drama?.
Her set included songs such as “Hello,” “Check Please,” “Errtime,” and “Pretty & Petty,” reflecting her signature mix of theatrical stage presence and sharp lyrical delivery.
While Cardi B skipped the red carpet, she fully commanded attention once on stage.
She opened her performance dramatically atop a motorcycle, before moving through a stylized set that included a city-inspired backdrop and bold visual elements designed to match the energy of her music.
Her fiery red hair was one of the most eye-catching elements of the performance, complementing a futuristic outfit that featured a multi-colored corset with galaxy-inspired designs.
She completed the look with a dramatic purple coat, fishnet stockings, and thigh-high boots, reinforcing her reputation for bold and experimental fashion choices.
The performance came during a major night for the rapper, who entered the awards with six nominations, including Album of the Year, Best Female Hip Hop Artist, Video Director of the Year, and the Fashion Vanguard Award.
Her presence at the ceremony highlighted her continued influence in both music and fashion within the industry.
Cardi B’s stage set was also marked by its theatrical production, incorporating props such as a roulette table and a pole, which added to the visual storytelling of her performance.
The elaborate staging reflected the larger trend of high-concept performances dominating modern award shows.
The 2026 BET Awards featured a wide range of performers and honorees, celebrating achievements across music, entertainment, and culture.
Cardi B’s appearance stood out not only for her performance but also for her bold new look, which quickly circulated across social media platforms.
As one of the most recognizable figures in contemporary hip-hop, Cardi B continues to blend music, fashion, and performance art into a distinctive public persona.
Her fiery red hair transformation at the BET Awards added another memorable moment to her growing list of iconic stage appearances.
Cardi B showcases a bold fiery red hair look while performing on stage at the 2026 BET Awards.Cardi B appears with fiery red hair at the 2026 BET Awards, drawing attention during her stage performance.
The concert, held at Bugesera District Stadium, was the penultimate stop of the Summer Country Tour, which is set to conclude in Rubavu on July 4.
As the show prepared to begin, host MC Lucky Nzeyimana repeatedly called for Bwiza to take the stage, leaving fans waiting for nearly 20 minutes without an explanation. The singer later confirmed on her social media platforms that she had been involved in an accident en route to the concert, preventing her from attending.
“To all my amazing fans, I sincerely apologize for not being able to perform for you as planned. Unfortunately, I was involved in an accident on my way to the venue, which made it impossible for me to make it to the performance,” Bwiza wrote on her Instagram Story, but did not indicate whether the accident was minor or serious.
“I know many of you were looking forward to the show, and it deeply saddens me that I couldn’t be there with you. Your love, support, and understanding mean more to me than words can express.”
With Bwiza absent, veteran artist Kitoko opened the evening, performing fan favorites including Rurabo, Agakecuru, Urukundo, Akabuto, Sibyo, and Thank You Kagame. His energetic performance set the tone for the night’s entertainment.
The Ben followed with an extensive set of more than 20 songs, including Ndi uw’i Kigali, I’m in Love, Lose Control, Folomiana, Habibi, Indabo Zanjye, Roho Yanjye, Amahirwe ya Nyuma, Ntacyadutanya, Why, Naremeye, Wigenda, Ko Nahindutse, Ndaje, Plenty, Sikosa, and Thank You. His performance drew enthusiastic reactions from the crowd and was widely praised by attendees.
Bruce Melodie closed the show with a theatrical entrance. Before taking the stage, the singer had arranged for two roaring motorcycles to accompany his entrance, with plans to ride one before joining his dancers on stage.
He performed a 17-song set featuring Ndumiwe, Selebura, Funga Macho, Ikinya, Ikinyafu, Akinyuma, Saa Moya, Ndakwanga, Nisindiye, Fou de Toi, Igitangaza, Ubushyuhe, Munyakazi, Bado, Pom Pom, Kungola, and Henzapu, bringing the concert to an energetic close.
Although the event was widely regarded as a success, it also sparked debate on social media, where fans compared the night’s standout performances and argued over who delivered the better show, Bruce Melodie or The Ben.
The Summer Country Tour will conclude with its final concert in Rubavu on July 4, 2026.
Bwiza’s fans waited for her and grew increasingly restless.Bertrand, a journalist at Magic FM, was the first to energize the crowd of music fans. Even after learning that Bwiza would not be performing at the concert, her fans did not take down the placards featuring her name.
Several commercial companies opted to support various artists.
As the evening drew on, the stadium gradually filled with fans.
Kitoko was the first artist to take the stage. Kitoko performed with a group of dancers who helped entertain his fans.
Kitoko earned cheers from fans for the joy and excitement he brought to the Bugesera concert.The Ben makes entrance to the concert.The Ben took the stage with great energy. A fan of The Ben, dressed in a white wedding gown, cheered him enthusiastically from the beginning to the end of his performance. Bruce Melodie arrived on stage in spectacular fashion at the concert.Bruce Melodie performed a 17-song set featuring
Ariana Grande has recently drawn public attention after being reportedly seen spending time with her former boyfriend, Ricky Alvarez, during her stay in Austin, Texas. The sighting quickly circulated across social media, prompting renewed discussion among fans about their past relationship and current friendship.
Grande and Alvarez previously dated between 2015 and 2016, during a period when he worked as a backup dancer and was part of her professional circle.
Although their romantic relationship ended years ago, the two have been known to maintain a friendly connection, with Alvarez occasionally mentioned by fans in relation to Grande’s earlier music era.
Following the recent public attention, speculation began online regarding the nature of their interaction. However, there has been no official confirmation from Ariana Grande, Ricky Alvarez, or their representatives suggesting any romantic reunion.
At this stage, their reported meeting is understood to be a casual and friendly interaction between two people who share history.
Ricky Alvarez and Ariana Grande attended The Creators Party, presented by Spotify, held at Cicada in Los Angeles, California.
The renewed interest also comes at a time when Grande continues to remain in the spotlight due to her ongoing music and acting projects, including her involvement in major entertainment productions and public appearances connected to her career.
As with many high-profile celebrities, even ordinary social interactions often become the subject of intense public discussion and interpretation.
Fans have also revisited Grande’s earlier music, where references to past relationships including Alvarez were once part of her lyrical storytelling. This has further fueled online conversation, though such interpretations remain speculative and not indicative of current events.
As of now, there is no verified information confirming any romantic development between Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez.
Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez spark online discussion after being seen together in Austin, reigniting public interest in their past connection.
The concert will feature some of Rwanda’s leading artists, including Bruce Melodie, The Ben, Kitoko, and Bwiza.
Since the tour began, all performances have been streamed on Onstage.rw, where viewers can purchase access for 5,000 Rwandan francs and watch the full concert live from start to finish.
Amani Africa, who represents Artland, the company organising the tour in partnership with Watu Wave, said those unable to travel to Bugesera should not worry, as arrangements have been made to ensure they can still follow the event online.
He noted that lessons learned from the previous two concerts have helped improve the streaming experience, making it more reliable and enjoyable for viewers.
The Bugesera concert will be the third stop of the four-part Summer Country Tour, which began in Musanze on June 13, 2026, continued in Nyagatare on June 20, 2026, and will conclude on July 4, 2026, in Rubavu.
The concert has attracted a large number of music fans.Music fans attending the concerts continue to enjoy the experience.
Hall, who has built a global following through viral, high-intensity fitness routines, recently teased the trip on his social media platforms.
In a series of clips showing him racing against cars and aircraft, the influencer repeatedly exclaimed “Africa,” signaling his forthcoming visit to the continent. He also shared a sequence of national flags outlining his planned itinerary, confirming that the tour will begin on June 28, 2026.
As part of the tour, Hall is expected to visit a series of African countries, including Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Uganda, and South Africa, among others.
The 30-year-old influencer is known for his disciplined daily fitness regimen, typically carried out in the early morning hours. He says he has maintained this routine consistently for the past 15 years.
His upcoming African tour follows previous international visits to countries such as Germany, Puerto Rico, India, and the United Arab Emirates, where he has often collaborated with local creators and fitness enthusiasts.
In Rwanda, social media personality Kagarara has been among those inspired by Hall’s style of content creation. He began producing similar content after meeting American streamer IShowSpeed, who previously visited Rwanda.
Hall, who has built a global following through viral, high-intensity fitness routines, teased the trip on his social media platforms.The 30-year-old influencer is known for his disciplined daily fitness regimen, typically carried out in the early morning hours. He says he has maintained this routine consistently for the past 15 years.
His remarks come just days after Zari publicly announced that she had mutually agreed to divorce Shakib, a statement that sparked widespread discussion across social media and entertainment circles in East Africa.
However, speaking in a recent interview following his return from Kenya, Shakib maintained that there is no separation between them, describing the situation as a normal misunderstanding between spouses rather than a breakup.
“Separation is not something that happens on social media. People in relationships do not always agree on everything, and that does not mean their relationship has ended,” he said.
Shakib further noted that the two are still in communication and actively working through their differences in an effort to resolve their issues.
Reflecting on their relationship of about five years, he said he has grown to better understand Zari’s emotional nature.
“I have learned that my wife is very emotional and sometimes speaks without fully considering the consequences. What matters most is knowing how to resolve problems and move forward with life,” he added.
The development comes amid ongoing online speculation linking Shakib to Ugandan singer Kin Bella, who has Rwandan roots.
Ugandan boxer Shakib Cham Lutaaya has dismissed reports that his marriage to socialite Zari Hassan, widely known as “The Boss Lady,” has come to an end.
Iradukunda Aimable, commonly known as Yugi Umukaraza, has been arrested by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) and is being held in custody as authorities investigate allegations of rape involving Mbabazi Shadia, popularly known as Shaddy Boo.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry confirmed the arrest to IGIHE, stating that the suspect is being detained at the RIB Kimironko Station while investigations into the case continue.
According to the allegations under investigation, Yugi Umukaraza is accused of raping Shaddy Boo at her residence on the night of June 21, 2026.
Shaddy Boo told IGIHE that she and the suspect were previously friends and that he visited her home that evening carrying two bottles of alcohol, which they consumed together.
She further stated that after they spent time drinking, she later lost consciousness due to intoxication and woke up the following morning to find herself naked with the suspect beside her.
She said she was deeply shocked by the incident, adding that it was not consensual and that she believes she was taken advantage of while in a vulnerable state.
Authorities have not yet issued further details as investigations continue.
Iradukunda Aimable, commonly known as Yugi Umukaraza, has been arrested by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) and is being held in custody as authorities investigate allegations of rape involving Mbabazi Shadia, popularly known as Shaddy Boo.Shaddy Boo claims the suspect took advantage of her at her home.
The 2026 edition of Kigali Fashion Week, held from May 25 to 30, marked the event’s highly anticipated comeback, featuring runway shows at Kigali Universe and The Pinnacle, among other venues. The event drew designers, models, diplomats, corporate partners, and fashion enthusiasts from across the region.
However, weeks after the celebrations ended, Bunyeshuri says serious disagreements emerged behind the scenes, prompting him to cancel a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with LG Events in November 2025.
The open-air setting of Kigali Universe Bridge added a distinctive visual identity to Kigali Fashion Week’s runway presentation.
Speaking in an interview with IGIHE, Bunyeshuri praised the event’s execution and the efforts of the organising team but claimed that financial and operational concerns ultimately led to the collapse of the partnership.
“I think it was very successful,” he said of the event. “I must give credit to those who were behind managing and running it. The Rwandans who worked tirelessly behind the scenes did a really good job. Kigali Fashion Week came back with a bang.”
Despite commending the production, Bunyeshuri alleged that disputes arose over finances and communication during and after the event. According to him, several service providers and members of the organizing team later contacted him claiming they had not been paid.
The fashion showcase at Kigali Universe Bridge reflected Kigali’s growing reputation as a hub for creative industries.
He further alleged that approximately Rwf 35 million linked to various contributors and partners remained unaccounted for, though he acknowledged that he was not directly involved in the event’s financial management.
“The partners I’m talking about are the Americans and some Rwandans who worked with this event. None of them were paid. The Rwandans who were part of the organizing team were not paid,” he claimed.
Bunyeshuri also alleged that repeated attempts to reach LG Events after the event were unsuccessful.
“We gave him 14 days to come back to us. He didn’t come back. We wrote to him, but he didn’t answer calls. We used our legal team to write to him, he didn’t respond,” he said.
Designers from across the region presented bold and creative collections
The fashion entrepreneur further revealed that complaints had been filed with authorities in both Rwanda and Uganda.
“We have filed formal complaints. Everything is in the process. We want justice for the people who were affected,” he revealed.
Bunyeshuri maintained that he never received any financial benefit from the agreement, despite being entitled to 15 percent under the partnership arrangement.
“I never received a single dime from this project,” he stated.
LG Events responds
In response to these heavy allegations, LG Events Production and Creative Director, George Lugoloobi, rejected suggestions that his company’s role was merely operational.
Kigali Fashion Week turned Kigali Universe Bridge into a center of creativity as designers unveiled modern and innovative collections.
Speaking to IGIHE, Lugoloobi defended his team’s work, framing the financial strain as an inherent hurdle in building a long-term “creative ecosystem” rather than operational mismanagement.
“The success and visibility of this edition did not happen by accident. It was built through strategy, creative direction, execution, sacrifice, and significant financial risk,” Lugoloobi argued.
However, Lugoloobi’s defense avoids the specific financial rescue lines highlighted by the founder, who noted that a sponsor, Thompson Samson, had to step up to pay all 80 models present entirely out of pocket to avoid “embarrassment.”
Bunyeshuri pointed out that Samson “lost a lot of money” as funds went missing, questioning how the event’s capital was actually allocated.
In his response, Lugoloobi challenged the assumption that the event generated immediate profits, noting that first-year revivals require significant reinvestment. However, he fell short of addressing the core financial issues regarding service providers, who are yet to receive their money.
“In a first year of rebuilding any platform, profit is rarely the focus… Success on the outside does not always reflect the financial pressure, debt, and operational burden behind the scenes,” he stated.
Bunyeshuri (right)revealed that complaints had been filed with authorities in both Rwanda and Uganda.
Lugoloobi heavily criticised Bunyeshuri for airing what he termed as unresolved grievances in the press.
“What raises concern for me is the decision to take unresolved matters directly into the media before full financial reconciliation and due process have taken place,” Lugoloobi said. “That approach creates unnecessary public speculation instead of allowing the facts to be established through proper channels.”
While Bunyeshuri has said the partnership has been cancelled and control of the brand has reverted to him, Lugoloobi insisted that LG Events is not contesting ownership of Kigali Fashion Week.
“We are not fighting for ownership. We respect the history of the platform and the role of its founder,” he said.
“However, respect must also be given to creative minds, strategic contributions, and the value of the work that transformed this edition.”
Lugoloobi added that any transition should be handled professionally and should account for outstanding debts, liabilities, and obligations associated with rebuilding the platform.
“If the intention is to reclaim the platform, then the responsible thing is to settle matters accordingly, through proper financial reconciliation and mutual respect,” he noted.
Despite the dispute, both parties acknowledged the undeniable success of Kigali Fashion Week’s return and its positive impact on Rwanda’s creative economy.
Kigali Fashion Week created a unique atmosphere on Kigali Universe Bridge with lights, music, and runway presentations.
Bunyeshuri stated that the event renewed enthusiasm among young designers and models, confirming that discussions are already underway for future editions later this year.
“We’re not going to stop. We’re going to build on what they built,” he remarked.
As formal legal and financial complaints unfold with authorities in both Kigali and Kampala, the final resolution of the dispute, and whether local service providers will ever see their money, remains to be seen.
Watch the full interview with John Bunyeshuri below:
According to RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, the complaint has been officially registered and an investigation has begun. He also confirmed that the complainant underwent medical examinations.
“We have received the complaint and investigations have begun. The complainant also underwent medical examinations at Isange One Stop Center,” the spokesperson revealed.
On June 22, 2026, Shaddy Boo publicly appealed to RIB via social media, later stating that she had been advised to proceed with medical testing as part of the investigation process.
Shaddy Boo alleges that the rape incident occurred during the night of June 21, 2026, at her residence. She claims that the suspect, a former friend, visited her home carrying alcohol, which they consumed together.
She further alleges that after drinking, she became intoxicated and later woke up to find herself undressed, with the man beside her, suggesting that sexual intercourse had taken place without her consent.
She stated that the situation caused her significant distress, emphasising that the encounter was not consensual and that she believed she had been taken advantage of while she was vulnerable.
RIB has stated that investigations into the case are ongoing.
The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has confirmed that it has received a complaint filed by socialite Shadia Mbabazi, commonly known as Shaddy Boo, who accuses Iradukunda Aimable, popularly known as Yugi Umukaraza, of sexual assault.Shaddy Boo claims Yugi Umukaraza took advantage of her on the night of June 21, 2026.
