For six uninterrupted hours, worship never waned; energy never dipped, and faith filled every corner of BK Arena.

The Bank of Kigali-powered fourth edition of Icyambu Live Concert, held on December 25, was not just another concert but a living testimony of consistency, calling, and an artist who has mastered the rare art of turning music into a spiritual experience.

The concert opened at exactly 7:00 PM with an energetic performance by Narada Vocal Band, setting a reverent tone for what would become one of the most memorable gospel nights of the year.

Since its inception in 2022, Icyambu concert has evolved into a Christmas-season tradition, a gathering that draws thousands of worshippers and music lovers from across Rwanda and beyond to celebrate Jesus’ birth.

At 7:45 PM, anticipation reached its peak as Israel Mbonyi stepped onto the stage, opening with "Uri Yaaa,” a culturally inspired song rooted in Gakondo sounds. The song, drawn from his latest album "Hobe” released on October 5, immediately connected heritage with worship in the arena.

Moments later, the crowd erupted as Mbonyi transitioned into "Ku Migezi,” one of his early songs that spotlighted him into national prominence. Thousands sang along word for word, a reminder of how deeply his music has been woven into Rwanda’s gospel journey.

With the performance of "Ku Marembo y’Ijuru” and "Ndakubabariye,” BK Arena into blue as fans raised their phone torches in unison.

The moment was accompanied by a scripture reading from Psalms 86:16–17, emphasizing mercy, forgiveness, and God’s faithfulness. Cheers echoed across the arena as the message of grace deeply resonated with the audience.

By 9:00 PM, the tempo rose again when he performed "Ndashima” which pulled the audience back to their feet before his breakthrough song "Nzibyo Nibwira” followed, receiving a two handed reception that reaffirmed Mbonyi’s ability to move seamlessly between praise and worship.

The night also attracted notable figures from Rwanda’s creative and gospel circles, including Massamba Intore, Kevin Kade, Prosper Nkomezi, and renowned music manager Alex Muyoboke, as well as Minister of Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungirehe, all present to support the singer.

After two hours on stage, the atmosphere shifted as Pastor Aaron Ruhimbya took the stage. Drawing from Luke 2:8–14, he unpacked the Christmas story, the meaning of Icyambu (the bridge) and Mbonyi’s personal testimony.

Pst Ruhimbya referenced the book of 1 Timothy 3:16 which reflects on the mystery of Christ’s incarnation, sacrifice, resurrection, and ascension, grounding the concert in a profound message of redemption.

Mbonyi had taken enough break before returning to the stage with "Nzaririmba,” instantly re-engaging the audience and ushering in the next phase of the night.