Rwandan singer France Mpundu was visibly emotional as she took to the stage for her first-ever live concert at the French Institute on Friday night, delivering a heartfelt performance before a packed audience that included her parents, who sang along to every song throughout the evening.
Organised by Mpundu and her team, the concert marked what the singer described as a major milestone in her career. She was backed by a live band and three backup vocalists dressed in coordinated black outfits, while popular content creator Promesse Kamanda kept the energy high as the master of ceremonies.
The concert was divided into two distinct segments. Mpundu opened the night dressed in a flowing white outfit accented with a bold red tie, dedicating the first part of the show to songs from the early stages of her career, including Sinabirota and Darling, her collaboration with the late musician Yvan Buravan.
Midway through the performance, Mpundu paused to reflect on Buravan’s impact on her musical journey and personal life.
"I hope he is proud of me, and that he is with us tonight,” she said softly, inviting the audience to sing along in tribute. The moment drew loud applause and visible emotion from both the singer and the crowd.
One of the evening’s standout moments came when Mpundu proudly held up her engagement ring from The Secret Story Africa winner Moctar, sending the audience into cheers and screams of excitement.
She closed the first segment by welcoming rising singer Kenny Umu on stage for a performance of City Girl, a song originally released by Umu before Mpundu featured on its remix.
The show also drew support from key figures in Rwanda’s creative industry, including artistes manager Alex Muyoboke, as well as Shemi and Rlutta, the rising duo behind the hits Peace of Mind and Umeze Bon.
Following a brief interlude filled with singing and traditional dance led by MC Kamanda, Mpundu returned to the stage for the second half of the concert, this time dressed in a leather outfit. The mood shifted instantly as she urged fans to dance, drawing many out of their seats and onto their feet.
The audience rose again when Mpundu thanked her supporters for their constant encouragement and belief in her potential. Emotions peaked when she singled out her mother in the crowd, expressing gratitude for her unwavering support and asking the audience to applaud her.
Surprises continued with the appearance of singer Juno Kizigenza, who joined Mpundu on stage for a performance of their hit collaboration Over. After the song, Kizigenza embraced Mpundu, telling her, "I am so proud of you,” prompting another wave of cheers.
Mpundu closed the night with her hit song Nabikoze, first leading the audience in a word-for-word singalong before delivering a powerful final performance with her band.
As she thanked fans at the end of the show, Mpundu promised that this debut concert was only the beginning, hinting at more performances and new music set to be released later this year.