Music investor and Managing Director of Country Records Paul Nduwimana, also known as Noopja, has said that it is a huge motivation to have won two accolades at the East African Arts Entertainment Awards (EAEA) which was held in Nairobi, Kenya over the weekend. Country Records, a brainchild of the artiste and investor, bagged two prizes at the awarding gala which usually honors the rich and diverse talents within the East African region. ALSO READ: The Ben, Muyoboke, Alliah Cool hit the podium at regional entertainment awards gala Upcoming music producer Kozze, who is signed under Country records, secured Audio Producer of Excellence, while the Kigali based studio took home the prize for Best Music Studio East Africa. This, according to Noopja, is a milestone for not only the studio or artistes it produces for, but Rwanda’s creative industry. It's very valuable, a big motivation, and a wakeup call to keep doing great things since we are taking over the East Africa region. This is clear proof that what we do is followed and appreciated by many people outside the country, he said. As a music production house, Noopja believes that his studio has gone beyond expectations of serving only the local industry and also contributed to the transformation of the pop culture of East Africa. ALSO READ: Noopja's Country Records and how they are revolutionising Rwanda’s music scene “This shows that Rwanda is capable of having a big influence on the music industry globally if more partners come on board. I’m talking about the private sector, government and even players. We can achieve a lot together,” Noopja highlighted. Noopja further emphasized Rwanda's support towards all sectors of life including the art sector, crediting it for pushing young talents to go higher and achieve big in everything they do. “A safe environment we work in and the country’s will to encourage every Rwandan to strive at anything they do is what motivated us to have a competitive spirit,” Noopja said, adding that the creative sector can also contribute a lot to the country's GDP if well supported. Other Rwandan artistes such as The Ben, Israel Mbonyi, Nel Ngabo, Knowless and many other Rwandan celebrities shined at the event as they took home key awards of the night. 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.
