Apostle Alice Mignonne Umunezero Kabera, the Senior Pastor of Noble Family Church and Founder of Women Foundation Ministries, made a heartwarming gesture by honoring several renowned gospel musicians for their outstanding work in spreading the Gospel through music in Rwanda.

The recognition took place on Monday, June 13, 2024, during the 5th day of the 7-day "7 Days of Worship" event held at the Ubumwe Grande Hotel in Kigali from 7 pm. While a limited audience attended in person, thousands more joined virtually via live streaming.

The event's theme, "Make It Known" from Habakkuk 3:2, invited various ministers including Rev. Dr. Antoine Rutayisire, Rev. Ruzibiza Viateur, Rev. Grace Kapswara, and acclaimed gospel artists like Simon Kabera, David Nduwimana, Alex Dusabe, Rene Patrick & Tracy, and the popular group Precious Stone.

On this particular evening, the gospel artists were honored and shared the Word, followed by a celebratory dinner. Apostle Mignonne expressed her deep appreciation for the impact these musicians have had, especially in the difficult years following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

Among those honored was veteran artist Theo Bosebabireba, whom Apostle Mignonne commended for his repentant heart and powerful evangelistic work through music. Despite a 4-year suspension from 2018 to 2022 by ADEPR over misconduct issues, Bosebabireba persevered, ultimately receiving forgiveness and restoration.

Aime Uwimana, considered the grandfather of Rwandan gospel music, was honored for his selfless support in launching Women Foundation Ministries and nurturing many artists, including the renowned group Precious Stone. Other honorees included Steven Karasira for his 19 years in Christian media, Gaby Kamanzi for his heart to serve, Alex Dusabe for his exceptional musical impact, and Ivan Ngenzi for paving the way for artists like Josh Ishimwe in the Gakondo genre.

Legend Guy Badibanga, known for hit songs like "Shangiliyeni Bwani," and Australia-based Burundian David Nduwimana, who performs at major rugby events, were also recognized.

Apostle Mignonne highlighted two non-gospel artists, Mani Martin and Patrick Nyamitari, for the spiritual impact of their songs despite not being in the genre. The event featured powerful performances, with the honorees joining voices on popular hits like "Nta kundi kimbeshyejeho" by Aime Uwimana ft. Gaby Kamanzi, "Umuyoboro" by Alex Dusabe, and others.

Apostle Mignonne closed with a prophetic declaration: "Let it be known that Rwanda has extraordinary gospel artists, unique in their strength and abilities."

The 7 Days of Worship event aimed to celebrate the transformative power of worship and gospel music in Rwandan society, providing a platform to honor those who have dedicated their talents to spreading the Good News.

Renowned Rwandan gospel musician Israel Mbonyi, considered one of the top artists in the genre currently, has announced receiving an honorary award during his recent concert in Belgium. The recognition is a testament to his music's message transcending borders.

Mbonyi shared this in an interview with Inya Rwanda following his sold-out performance at the Dome Event Hall in Belgium, which attracted over 1,000 attendees. This marked his second concert tour in the European nation.

During this visit, Mbonyi also launched his latest album 'Nk'Umusirikare' (Like A Soldier) containing hit tracks like 'Nina Siri' to the Rwandan diaspora and other fans based in Belgium. At the high-profile event, the acclaimed artist behind songs such as 'Umukunzi' was honored with an award as the Most Popular East African Artist in Europe.

The award was presented to Mbonyi by the Mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, after he was invited to perform in Belgium by the event organizers Team Production. Speaking to media , Mbonyi expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, seeing it as a sign that his musical message has traveled far and wide, marking the start of an evangelical journey through song.

"This award means so much to me! It's a blessing, signifying that the message has reached distant places. For the Mayor himself to personally present this award is truly extraordinary," Mbonyi stated. He added, "I feel God is doing powerful works through what we are doing. I ask myself if I'm just starting to sing because the task ahead seems immense."

The artist revealed the concert was a memorable experience, as he witnessed people receiving salvation and God's hand at work. "I saw testimonies of people being healed through this concert. The city officials of Brussels even told me to feel at home here," Mbonyi recounted.

"I'm so grateful to God! We had a wonderful, joyous event where many people got saved, we prayed for the sick who were healed. I felt such joy being with my entire team," he continued. "The Mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, welcomed us warmly, presented me with a great award as the Most Popular East African Artist in Europe, and told me from now on, I should feel at home in Belgium. It was truly amazing. I thank God. But most importantly, souls were saved and God's presence was heavily felt with the huge crowd."

After Belgium, Israel Mbonyi is preparing for two major concerts in Uganda, Kenya, South Africa and other regions.

Rwandan gospel singer and worship leader Aline Gahongayire has announced that she will be holding her first-ever concert in Belgium on October 5, 2024. The show is part of her music tour aimed at reaching out to her fan base in the European country.

This concert is an outcome of Gahongayire's recent visit to Belgium, where she supported fellow artist Israel Mbonyi during his own show on June 8, 2024. Mbonyi's concert was one of the highly anticipated events, especially as it coincided with the release of his latest album titled 'Nk'umusirikare' (Like A Soldier).

In an interview with Inya Rwanda, Gahongayire, known for hit songs like 'Ndanyuzwe', explained that her Belgium trip was meant to support Mbonyi's event while also laying the groundwork for her own debut show in the country.

The concert, organized by Team Production who also worked on Mbonyi's recent weekend show, will take place at the Thon Hotel Bristol Stephanie venue on October 5, 2024. Gahongayire revealed she will be joined by other guest artists, though details are still under wraps.

"So far, my featured guests haven't been announced yet as Team Production is handling those logistics. But this is about reaching my fans and expanding my music's footprint," she stated. The venue is different from where Mbonyi held his concert.

Aline Gahongayire, Peace Josy and Karekezi (MD of Team Production)

Aline Gahongayire is a renowned gospel singer and worship leader, best known for powerful praise songs like the hit 'Ndanyuzwe'. She started singing and dancing in a Rwandan-speaking church where her grandmother was a member. Gahongayire later joined the renowned Asaph Choir at Zion Temple Gatenga Church.

Her music journey began at Zion Temple, commonly known as Gitwaza Church, located in Gatenga Sector, Kicukiro District and led by Apostle Dr. Paul Gitwaza. She is praised for her anointed, powerful songs.

To date, Gahongayire has released 6 albums and is working on albums 7, 8 and 9 to be released soon for her eager fans. She is an accomplished singer-songwriter, speaker and philanthropist who founded the non-profit Ndineza Organization to support vulnerable children and women.

Canadian-Based Gospel Artist Nice Ndatabaye to Hold Major Concert in U.S.The renowned Rwandan gospel singer Nice Ndatabaye, who is based in Canada, is set to hold a major concert event in the United States.Ndatabaye's concert, dubbed "Intimate Worship Session 2," will take place on June 18, 2024 in the city of Indianapolis, Indiana. The show will feature live recordings of several of her new gospel songs.

This comes eight months after Ndatabaye held his previous "Intimate Worship Session 1" concert on September 29, 2023 at the Crown Conference Hall in Kigali, Rwanda, which featured a guest performance by Tanzanian artist Dr. Ipyana. Speaking about this upcoming U.S. concert, Ndatabaye said it was God's calling forhis to minister there. "It's been a prayer, and I'm preparing for this second 'Intimate Worship' concert in Indianapolis as directed by the Holy Spirit," he stated.

The singer, who had her first major concert in Rwanda on 12/08/2019, is known for captivating his fans with spirit-filled performances. He revealed that Rwandan gospel artist Adrien Misigaro will be a guest performer at the Indianapolis event. "This will be a live recording concert. We'll be recording our second live album from this 'Intimate Worship' event, containing new songs captured live with vocals and instrumentation. It's a team effort as God's servants in preparation," Ndatabaye explained.

While dubbed his second album, it will actually be Ndatabaye's third overall album release. "For me, it's my third album, but in this concert setting, it's the second, as God has put this annual event on my heart," she clarified. The singer urged fans in the area to attend and join in worship, saying, "It's our joy, and many tell us they love our music, so this is the time to show it. Let everyone come, buy tickets, and support us in praising God."

Ndatabaye expressed his expectations for the concert: "People will worship God, be refreshed, have a good time, encounter God, receive messages through the ministers present, and there will also be a sharing of testimonies."

He revealed some attendees will receive healing, others will find peace and salvation, adding, "The expected impact is immense." Tickets are $30 general admission and $50 for VIP.

Ndatabaye is famous for hit songs like "Umbereye Maso," "Imigambi Yawe," "Ayi Mana y'Ukuri" and others. Born on 15/07/1989 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he came to Rwanda after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. In 2009, he moved to Kenya for work reasons and pursued further studies there. Ndatabaye then obtained documents allowing him to relocate to Canada in 2014, where he has been based since and launched his solo music career. His songs began gaining international popularity in 2018.

Christina Shusho, a revered gospel artist from East Africa, has set tongues wagging in Kenya with a sneak peek of her latest track, “Zakayo.” In her soul-stirring Swahili lyrics, Shusho sings, “There was a man named Zakayo, the chief of tax collectors and a wealthy man. He sought to see what kind of person Jesus was…”

Given Shusho’s significant fan base in Kenya, the teaser sparked playful speculation. Some even cheekily wondered if the song alluded to Kenya’s President, William Ruto. 

Some Kenyans humorously liken President Ruto to Zakayo—the Swahili version of Zacchaeus from biblical tales. Zacchaeus is known as a tax collector from the Bible who, out of curiosity, climbed a tree to catch sight of Jesus.

President Ruto’s fiscal policies have earned him the nickname “Zakayo” among the populace. Since taking office in August 2022, he’s introduced and hiked various taxes. This has led to a decline in his popularity, especially among Kenyans who feel he’s strayed from his pledge to prioritise the welfare of “hustlers”—the hardworking individuals facing financial challenges.

Sony Pictures’ AFFIRM Films and Provident Films, alongside the cherished Kendrick Brothers, unveiled their official trailer as they prepare for the nationwide theatrical debut of their latest creation, “THE FORGE,” commencing on August 23rd. Set in the captivating universe of their 2015 blockbuster “WAR ROOM,” this stirring drama delves into the profound impact of mentorship, promising audiences an uplifting journey.

The cast of THE FORGE includes familiar faces such as Priscilla Shirer (WAR ROOM), Cameron Arnett (OVERCOMER), Karen Abercrombie (WAR ROOM) and newcomer Aspen Kennedy. Also starring T.C. Stallings (WAR ROOM), BJ Arnett, Ken Bevel

(COURAGEOUS), Former NFL star Benjamin Watson, Jonathan Evans, Jerry Shirerand Tommy Woodard (FAMILY CAMP).

“We made this film to inspire, challenge and motivate viewers to follow Jesus wholeheartedly,” says director Alex Kendrick. “Our hope is that audiences around the world will recognize the pivotal role that Godly mentorship plays in shaping the next generation.”

The Kendrick Brothers continue to create inspiring and compelling stories for audiences of all ages. THE FORGE is their newest feature, joining FACING THE GIANTS,FIREPROOF, COURAGEOUS, OVERCOMER, and WAR ROOM.

“It is an honor to partner with the Kendrick Brothers to bring another powerful story to movie screens that will impact people and glorify Jesus,” says Priscilla Shirer. “The theme of discipleship is near and dear to my heart, especially as a mom to three boys. My prayer is that this film will inspire parents to pray fervently for their children and for the mentors that God will use to impact their lives.”

The film is accompanied by a suite of inspiring products releasing this summer from B&H Publishing Group, including two books by New York Times best-selling authors Alex and Stephen Kendrick titled “Devoted to Jesus” and “Count Me In,” as well as two Bible studies under the Lifeway imprint: The Forge Movie Bible Study and Fully Devoted. B&H will also release I Surrender All by New York Times best-selling author Priscilla Shirer.

THE FORGE is directed by Alex Kendrick (WAR ROOM) and produced by Stephen Kendrick (WAR ROOM), Justin Tolley (“The Chosen,”), Aaron Burns (WAR ROOM) and Trey Reynolds (FAMILY CAMP), and written by Alex and Stephen Kendrick.

The husband-and-wife duo of Fabrice and Maya Nzeyimana through Heavenly Melodies Ministries (HM) Africa have announced that they are gearing up for a concert which will double as a live recording session on Sunday, June 2, Christian Life Assembly (CLA), Nyarutarama.

The ‘Muremyi w’Isi’ singers are a married couple that have dedicated their lives to serving God through singing. They have written and sung many songs together for some time.

“The session will serve as a launchpad for our new album, dubbed “Transformation”. Join us as we unveil a collection of original music designed to uplift, inspire, and ignite change within hearts and our communities,” Nzeyimana said.

“The key purpose will be the powerful and transforming message of the gospel and its capacity to lead souls to Christ. Advocating for youth engagement in meaningful pursuits and steering away from alcohol and drug use,” affirmed the duo.

“We believe that every melody and word can spark positive change and reinforce the attitude of Christian life embedded in service and transformation," he added.

According to the couple, the title “Transformation” was chosen for both the album and the event to convey the central theme and purpose behind Fabrice, Maya, and HM Africa’s music and ministry. They highlighted that the aim is to evoke a spiritual awakening within individuals.

“Additionally, the session extends beyond personal transformation and seeks to inspire societal change. By choosing the theme, it emphasizes the desire to ignite a positive shift in communities, promoting values of love, unity, and service. The intention is to encourage listeners to embrace their role as agents of change and make a meaningful impact on society."

The duo, originally from Burundi, relocated to Rwanda in 2015, and began working at Christian Life Assembly in Nyarutarama. Their musical journey began around 2014, resulting in the creation of 14 songs for their “Overflow15” album which was launched in Rwanda while together.

They released another album titled “Overflow 19” in 2019, featuring the viral song ‘Muremyi w’isi’.

Additional albums include “Umwizigirwa’ (2009), “Ibihe” (2011), and “Mu Buntu” (2013). Their songs can be found on various digital platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer, iTunes, and YouTube, under the name – Heavenly Melodies Africa.

Source/Newtimes

Aime Uwimana expressed gratitude for being touched at heart and honored with an award bestowed upon him by Chryso Ndasingwa, acknowledging that he is deeply moved by the kindness of others, attributing any praise directed towards him not to his own actions but to the grace of God.

These sentiments were shared during an interview Aime Uwimana had with the media after Chryso Ndasingwa commended him for his generosity in extending a helping hand to emerging artists in the realm of gospel music.

He said, "I truly believe that one of the greatest gifts is to be a blessing to others, when people think you have been a blessing to them in guiding them in this path even though I believe it's God who has done it, I feel like it's a tremendous blessing. I am thankful to God who has blessed me to be a blessing to others."

On the other hand, Aime Uwimana sees Chryso Ndasingwa as one of the artists deeply committed to advancing the gospel message, praising his dedication to learning the word of God and proclaiming it.

He remarked, "I appreciate that he has a heart for praising God, a young man who possesses many talents, and I trust that he will continue to grow in them until he reaches the fullness of God's grace. He is a good singer, a good songwriter; I pray to God to lead him to where he has planned for him."

Chryso Ndasingwa, in turn, expressed his intention to express gratitude to Aime Uwimana as one of the artists contributing to the advancement of Rwandan music and pledged to honor him when he sees fit.

He stated, "There is a bad culture of neglecting or underestimating someone's contribution, regardless of whether they are 20 years old or older, it is not right for someone, even if they have been in the industry for a long time, to overlook the essential work of appreciating people in general, we also do it."

Apart from the award he received, Chryso Ndasingwa revealed that there are other diverse projects he plans to collaborate on with Aime Uwimana.

Aime Uwimana is one of the artists who was touched by Chryso Ndasingwa's gesture during the concert where this young man left a significant mark at BK Arena, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.

The rwandan gospel artist known for his songs of praise and worship, Chyrso Ndasingwa of the New Life Bible Church Kicukiro, after announcing to his fans that he would perform at BK Arena, fulfilled his promise, and his fans swarmed to the venue like bees, on Sunday, May 5, 2024, to witness the spectacle.

Many attended the concert eagerly, as Chyrso is hailed as a rising star, having started his musical journey during the COVID-19 pandemic. While there are other established artists who perform in their own right, they have not ventured into larger venues like the BK Arena, which can accommodate tens thousand without difficulty.

Israel Mbonyi, who gained fame in 2022 and 2023 with his Icyambu Live Concert held on Easter, has also been absent from the scene, presumably wrapping up his endeavors. Chryso Ndasingwa made history as a new and emerging artist, organizing and performing in his first concert.

Dubbed the Wahozeho Album Launch, Chryso Ndasingwa had the privilege of hosting the event for the first time, performing in a venue that others only dream of, but with a high attendance, including musicians, dignitaries like Miss Rwanda 2020 Naomi, and spiritual leaders like the Senior Pastor of the Evangelical Restoration Church, Apostle Ndagijimana Yoshua Masasu, among others, showing that as he had often mentioned, God had also smiled upon him.

This album by Chryso Ndasingwa features eleven songs, including some that were debuted at the concert, hence the name Wahozeho, which means 'to praise' in the album and the concert.

As evident from the support Chyrso Ndasingwa received from the Christian community attending this concert, including Asaph Music International, Papi Clever and Dorcas, Aime Uwimana, Ishimwe Josh, True Promises, and others who showed their unwavering support.

Asaph Music International from Zion Temple, in particular, surprised attendees with their well-received songs, including the collaboration with Tracy Agasaro titled "Izina Risumba Ayandi." Club Himbaza, known for its participation in the Easter Africa Got Talent competition, also performed their hit song "Habwa Ikuzo," ensuring the audience was thoroughly entertained.

However, it wasn't just them; True Promises, Josh Ishimwe with "Uri Imana yo Gushimagizwa," and Papi Clever and Dorcas with their song "Ameniweka Huru Kweli," which has garnered over 29 million views on YouTube, were among the highlights, leaving attendees mesmerized as they wrapped up the event.

Rwanda's music scene is abuzz with excitement as two of the country's most renowned artists, The Ben and Mbonyi, prepare to unveil their long-awaited collaboration. With fans eagerly anticipating the release of their joint project, the talented duo has recorded the song and is now eagerly awaiting its official debut. Produced by the esteemed and highly respected Mastola, this collaboration promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

The Ben and Mbonyi, both celebrated artists in their own right, have long been friends and admirers of each other's work. Their decision to join forces for a collaborative project has been met with enthusiasm from fans and industry insiders alike. With their unique styles and musical prowess, the duo is poised to deliver a song that will captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression on the Rwandan music scene.

Behind the scenes, the production of this highly anticipated collaboration has been entrusted to Mastola, a producer known for his exceptional talent and meticulous attention to detail. With a track record of delivering hit songs and working with some of the industry's biggest names, Mastola brings his expertise and creativity to the table, ensuring that The Ben and Mbonyi's collaboration exceeds expectations.

While details about the song remain shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: The Ben and Mbonyi's collaboration is set to be a musical masterpiece. With its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious beats, the song is sure to resonate with fans and cement the duo's status as two of Rwanda's most beloved artists.

As anticipation continues to build for the release of this highly anticipated collaboration, fans are eagerly counting down the days until they can finally hear the magic that The Ben and Mbonyi have created together. Stay tuned for more updates as we await the official debut of what promises to be a groundbreaking musical collaboration.