Artistes thrill Tanzania evictees

Over the weekend, a host of musicians, including Rafiki, Lil G, Jean de Dieu Intore Tuyisenge and Makonikoshwa, visited Kirehe camp, Eastern Province, home to thousands of people who were evicted from Tanzania this year.

Monday, December 16, 2013
The artistes managed to keep the crowd on their feet dancing all through. The New Times / B. Kimenyi.

Over the weekend, a host of musicians, including Rafiki, Lil G, Jean de Dieu Intore Tuyisenge and Makonikoshwa, visited Kirehe camp, Eastern Province, home to thousands of people who were evicted from Tanzania this year.The crowd gathered in huge numbers, excited to be entertained by some of the country’s popular artistes. The show, organised by Rwanda Young Generation Forum, had the residents super excited. All the performers exhibited great energy on stage and it was indeed a spectacular event. The musicians were part of an initiative by a youth group, who had carried along various items to help in the day to day life of the Rwandans. "We are here today to share love with you and show all of you that we know about your plight. We are also here to welcome you and tell you to feel at home,” said Robert Kagabo, the president of Rwanda Generation Youth Forum.  First on stage was Tuyisenge, an upcoming traditional music star, who hails from Kirehe District. Being on his home turf, he exhibited all his energy on stage and kept the crowd on their feet. Some of the songs he performed include, ‘Unkumbuje u Rwanda’ and ‘Ak’imuhana’. Lil G was next and he entertained the massive crowd with his most popular songs. Self-baptised Choga Style, Rafiki also delivered a great performance and got revelers dancing and singing along. Makonikoshwa wrapped up the show.After the performances, the over 70 youth who had travelled from Kigali, including the musicians, visited the families in the camp.