PHOTOS: Lionel Sentore launches ‘Uwangabiye’ album in homecoming concert

Gakondo enthusiasts turned up with energy on July 27 at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village to celebrate Kugabirana, the spirit of generosity, as Belgium-based Rwandan culture artiste Lionel Sentore launched his debut album “Uwangabiye.” The night of Gakondo music attracted several government officials and celebrities among other revelers who love music that celebrate Rwanda’s cultural heritage. Notable attendees include Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister of State for Local Government Marie-Solange Kayisire, Francophonie Secretary General Louise Mushikiwabo, renowned Rwandan traditional musician Jean-Marie Muyango, France-based musician Ben Kayiranga, Tonzi and many other distinguished guests. ALSO READ: Singer Sentore on pursuing traditional music while living abroad The evening began on a high note with a welcome performance by Ishyaka ry’Intore who set the stage with energy and tradition. Lionel Sentore soon followed, making an entrance dressed in black Gakondo attire, as he slowly engaged the audience with album title track “Uwangabiye.” Performing the song, he just opened the flow for other 12 songs from his album, including Ukobimeze, Teta, Gumana Nanjye, Urera, Mutima wa Afrika, Mukandori, Hobe, Yanyuzuye Umutima, and more. Then Jules Sentore later joined Lionel on stage with the song “Mama,” a tribute to the courage and strength of mothers. He also performed “Rutemikirere,” a track from his upcoming album Umudende, giving fans an exclusive preview ahead of its August 1 release. The two brothers remained on stage for additional performances, blending their sounds in a series of spontaneous renditions. Ruti Joel followed with his usual energy, performing fan favorites Igikobwa and Amaliza. He later joined the Sentore duo, adding his unique touch to the combo and elevating the performance into an unforgettable stage presence. A standout moment of the night emerged when Lionel performed “Mukobwa w’Abeza,” which he dedicated to Mushikiwabo. He described her as one of the most supportive public figures, particularly noting her engaging interactions with youth on her social media platforms, most especially X (formerly Twitter), where she’s already nicknamed “Umuchou”, a symbol of warmth and approachability. She was invited to stand for recognition, and the aura in the house spoke volumes. “Uwangabiye” brought the crowd to their feet, for it pays tribute to president Paul Kagame’s generosity initiatives, especially Girinka. The message went deep down among revelers and it made Muyango leave his seat for a surprise performance of his iconic song “Karame Uwangabiye,” lifting the concert’s energy to new heights. As the concert hit the climax, the stage was overcrowded as the audience joined for the feel-good dance. Youth and women led the celebrations with Imishagiriro and Guhamiriza, which stole the entire venue’s attention and closing the event in a lively mood. Speaking to The New Times after the concert, Lionel Sentore said that the generosity movement cannot be stopped, noting that President Kagame’s initiatives show a path worth following. “When someone gives you something out of love, that gift is priceless,” he said. “We’ve been given a beautiful country. We’ve been given all the necessities. It’s incredible. We’ve moved far beyond what used to be a struggle for survival. We are all truly grateful,” he added. The concert was backed by Bank of Kigali through its “Nanjye ni BK” initiative. The bank announced its commitment to supporting the creative industry by investing in products that provide mutual benefits for industry players and stakeholders.

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PHOTOS: Lionel Sentore launches ‘Uwangabiye’ album in homecoming concert