November is making its quiet exit, and Kigali is already humming with a familiar energy. The season of lights and late nights is almost here, and the weekend feels like an open invitation to taste what the city has become.
Music, cinema, praise, performance art, dance, and even a drive-in built for wandering souls. Here is what the weekend looks like, told in order, as the days unfold.
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Friday, November 28
Wazimba Album Launch
Rwanda’s love for live instruments has blossomed, and few artists have shaped that shift like Methuselah Mbonimpa. The saxophonist, better known as Water Sax, is launching his second studio album, Wazimba. He calls the project a reminder that the saxophone is becoming a deeper part of Rwanda’s sound.
He describes the instrument as emotional and rooted in both tradition and modern rhythms. The launch takes place this Friday at Mundi Centre. Entry is Rwf15,000 at the door.
Saturday, November 29
Niwe Healing Concert
The weekend expands into worship with the Niwe Healing Concert, a major gospel gathering led by Ngendahayo, who makes his homecoming after 17 years in the United States.
While the concert is marketed as a one-man performance, organisers say several gospel artists will appear as surprise guests. BK Arena gates open at 4 p.m. Tickets are priced at Rwf10,000 for standard, Rwf15,000 in the end zone, Rwf20,000 for gold, Rwf25,000 for diamond and Rwf30,000 for platinum.
99.9 Station: The Night Show
What makes a show superb? The artist, the crowd, or the space itself? For Ngaara, the answer needed a real test, so he created 99.9 Station, The Night Show, an installation built to challenge the way Kigali experiences live art.
The event takes place on November 29 at 7 p.m.at Institut Français du Rwanda.
Ngaara is inviting the city to show up and take part, not as spectators but as co-creators of the atmosphere. He calls it a shared show, something shaped by everyone in the room. Known for his genre-bending sound and striking visual work, he promises an experience that blends sound, performance and story. Tickets are Rwf9,990.
Echoes of Kigali
Echoes of Kigali is set at Kigali Universe, bringing together some of the most energetic names in the music scene. Uncool MC from South Africa headlines the show. The night also features DJ Tyga, DJ Marnaud, DJ Toxxyk, Kevin Klein, DJ Pyfo and DJ June, a line up built for a full stretch of high-tempo sets.
Doors open at 5 p.m. and organisers encourage early arrival for the full experience. Tickets are Rwf15,000, Rwf20,000, Rwf25,000 and Rwf200,000 for a table of six.
Atmosfera: Spaceship Edition
Atmosfera lifts the weekend into a different orbit with the Spaceship Edition. The lineup includes Kavumbi Dust, RLutta, DJ Sonia, Dawee, Angell Mutoni, Water Sax, Kem Lion, Pongoyungu, Bushali and DJ Lamper.
Performances from Umutagara and KDP Dance Crew complete the journey. Expect Afro House, 3 Step and Amapiano stretched across multiple sets. Tickets are Rwf20,000 on the gate, Rwf30,000 VIP and Rwf40,000 VVIP.
Jammin’ Kigali
Jammin Kigali returns with its monthly open-stage format. The event gathers emerging and established musicians for long, improvised nights. Past editions featured Mighty Popo, Bill Ruzima, Joey Blake, Kayonga Otis, Dawidi, Jules Hirwa, Serge Rugamba and more.
The hosts are Otis Kayonga and Umudiho. Bring your voice, your instrument or simply your presence. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Sunday, November 30
The Somnia Drive-In
The Somnia Drive In returns this Sunday, November 30, at the Expo Grounds in Gikondo with a full day of activity. The event features two films, a live circus show, puzzles and play corner, car showcases, carpool karaoke, food and drinks, vendor displays and DJ sets throughout the evening.
Gates open at 3 p.m. and the programme runs until 11 p.m. Tickets are Rwf15,000 for solo entry, with crew passes ranging from Rwf60,000 to Rwf80,000.
Iyo Niyo Data Live Concert
Alarm Ministries returns to KCEV/Camp Kigali this Sunday, November 30, for an evening of worship and praise. The concert, which starts at 5 p.m., is expected to draw large crowds looking for a night of uplifting music and a warm, communal atmosphere.
The line up promises soulful performances and harmonies that have long defined Alarm Ministries’ live shows. Organisers say the goal is simple: create a space where believers can reconnect, reflect and celebrate together.
Tickets are priced at Rwf10,000 for standard, Rwf20,000 for premium, Rwf25,000 for royal and Rwf50,000 for crown.
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