After 12 years in the United Kingdom, Rwandan artiste Kitoko Bibarwa is officially back to live in Rwanda.
He arrived at Kigali International Airport on Sunday morning, November 9, and was received by tens of members of the press and Intore Entertainment who are organising a concert during which he will perform alongside Nigerian Afrobeat superstar Davido at BK Arena on December 5 as part of the latter’s ‘5ive’ world album Tour’
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Kitoko was seen crying tears of joy upon arrival. He said he felt deeply moved by the reception and grateful to be back home after more than a decade abroad.
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"It has been quite a journey, but I’m very happy. I’m ready, knowing that people have missed me, and we’re going to have a great time together,” he said of his upcoming performance at Davido’s concert in Kigali.
During his years abroad, Kitoko continued making music and performed at various concerts across Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom. He remained one of the Rwandan artists who consistently represented the country well on the international stage.
Kitoko relocated to the United Kingdom in March 2013 where he pursued his studies. He graduated at South Bank University’ based in London where he earned a Master’s Degree in Political Studies.
He left Rwanda after building a name for himself as one of Rwanda’s finest musicians in the Afrobeats genre thanks to top track like "Ikiragi” and "Agakecuru” among others.
He kept recording music during his time in the UK but consistency in the studio was at a slow pace as he was spending more time on studies.
Kitoko confirmed that he is back to live in Rwanda, a decision, he said, was driven by his desire to invest in the local creative industry and nurture young talent.
"I felt it was time to return home. I want to create my music here, support other artists, and contribute to the growth of the industries I’m involved in. Rwanda is where my heart belongs,” he told the media.
He last traveled in Rwanda in July 2017 to support President Paul Kagame during the election campaign.