President Paul Kagame has approved the nationality request made by renowned Grace Divine Iradukunda, a popular Burundian disc jockey who rose to fame in Rwandan music industry as DJ Ira. DJ Ira, 27, was born and raised in Gitega, Burundi, before relocating to Rwanda in 2015. She started deejaying in 2017 and has since established herself among the best DJs in the country. ALSO READ: DJ Iradukunda: Determined to be Rwanda's Queen of the turntables She was also among the DJs who were on the decks during Kagame’s presidential campaign in 2024, besides entertaining thousands at Amahoro Stadium during the president’s inauguration in August. DJ Ira requested to be granted Rwandan nationality, inspired by the fact that the government gives equal chances to young men and women, taking example from herself, besides presenting opportunities to all youth, including foreigners. “I myself found a blessing in this country...so, my request, I would like to ask you for Rwandan nationality so that I can also be called a Rwandan citizen and become all yours,” DJ Ira said to the head of state during his country outreach held at BK Arena on Sunday, March 16. In response, Kagame approved the DJ’s request and told her to follow the rest with authorities in charge. “In principle, I grant it to you. The rest can be followed up with due process,” Kagame said. DJ Ira was visibly excited after she got her nationality request approved. She could barely hold her emotions as the crowd all over the arena applauded.
