Rwanda was well represented at the East African Arts Entertainment Awards (EAEA) 2024 awarding ceremony which took place in Nairobi, Kenya on Sunday, April 14 as musician The Ben, music manager Alex Muyoboke and actress Alliance Isimbi, also known as Alliah Cool, emerged among celebrities who took home the prizes affirming their growing influence and artistry in the region. The winners are every year hailed for their exceptional contributions to East African entertainment industry. Alliah Cool took home the coveted ‘East Africa Film Star award’, beating off competition from outstanding contenders Kate Actress from Kenya, Jacob Stephene JB from Tanzania, and Nabwiso Mathew from Uganda. Meanwhile, Muyoboke Alex’s invaluable mentorship garnered him the esteemed title of ‘Best Artist Manager East Africa’ surpassing Chiki Kuruka from Kenya, Babu Tale from Tanzania, and Ismail Nzeyimana from Burundi. ALSO READ: Why 2023 could be Rwanda’s biggest year musically The Ben, real name Benjamin Mugisha, secured the ‘Best Music Video of the Year’ prize for his captivating song ‘Ni Forever’. The song, which was originally dedicated to his wife Pamella Uwicyeza, was directed by Rwandan fast-rising video director John Elart. In the category of ‘Audio Producer of Excellence’, emerging producer Kozze scooped the award while his mother studio, Country Records, bagged ‘Best Music Studio East Africa’ surpassing big recording houses like Swangz Avenue (Uganda), Pluto Republic (Tanzania), and Black Market Records (Kenya). The accolades weren’t confined exclusively to the realm of entertainment, as Gakondo singer Marchal Ujeku bagged double honours. His track ‘Ntakazimba’ (Nkombo style) was awarded as the ‘Best Culture Music- East Africa’, while his entrepreneurial venture, ‘Marchal Real Estate’, was named the ‘Most Supportive/Best Real Estate Company’. Reflecting on the event’s history, organizers recalled singer Meddy’s historic win in 2022 with ‘People’s Choice Artist of the Year’ in Rwanda, in 2023 Bruce Melodie won ‘People’s Choice Best Sound’ in Rwanda. Meanwhile Kina Music signees Butera Knowless and her fellow singer Nel Ngabo won ‘People’s Choice Collaboration of the Year’ with their joint track ‘Mahwi’. With over 50 categories spanning music, dance, media, cinema, production, managers, digital, DJs, and more, that have been featured, these prestigious awards aim to honour the rich and diverse talent within the East African music scene.
