In Kigali, a new generation of Rwandan youth is stepping into the spotlight thanks to Global Citizen’s Move Afrika tour – not as performers, but as the skilled professionals behind the scenes of Africa’s most ambitious live events. Thanks to a strategic partnership between Global Citizen and Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, 35 young Rwandans have been trained and empowered to pursue careers in the creative industry. Ahead of next year’s Move Afrika 2026, plans are underway to expand the programme and scale up the employment accelerator scheme. Move Afrika, a groundbreaking touring platform launched in 2023 by Global Citizen, the international non profit advocacy organisation, is redefining the future of live entertainment on the continent. Designed as a long-term initiative to pioneer the international music touring circuit across Africa, it sets a new gold standard by combining world-class performances with social impact. The platform focuses on driving economic investment, expanding infrastructure, and building local capacity within host cities, creating jobs, providing skills training, fostering youth entrepreneurship, and ultimately showcasing Africa’s best creative talent to the world. In Rwanda, that mission has taken shape through hands-on professional development. Over the past two installments of Move Afrika, the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, have partnered with Global Citizen’s Move Afrika team to train and upskill local talent in event production, operations, and management. This work culminated in their direct involvement in two of the largest live music events ever staged in Kigali. The 2024 edition was headlined by EGOT-winning, multiplatinum artiste and producer John Legend, alongside Rwanda’s own Bwiza and DJ TOXXYK. The series launched in 2023 with Pulitzer and Grammy–winning headliner Kendrick Lamar, and also spotlighted talent including Bruce Melodie and Zuchu. “This initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative and operational talent in Rwanda,” said Ifeoma Chuks-Adizue, Managing Director Africa, Global Citizen. “By providing young people with practical skills and exposure, we are helping bridge the gap between education and meaningful employment in the creative economy.” For 22-year-old Orante Tuyizere, the experience was transformative: “I’ve grown to see it as more than just a concert. It opened doors, connected me with people who recommended me for new job opportunities and helped me keep growing. I believe more Rwandan youth could benefit from such life changing experiences.” “Before this programme, I had never imagined working behind the scenes of a big event,” she said. “At first, I was nervous about handling responsibilities, but the training gave me confidence. Now, I feel capable and excited about a future in event management.” Her fellow trainee, 30-year-old Isabella Nshuti Museruka, commented: “Move Afrika was more than just an event; it was a chance to learn, grow, and be part of something larger than myself. It is an experience I will cherish and draw inspiration from for years to come.” For Isabella Nshuti Museruka the impact went beyond technical skills: “Move Afrika 2025 was an extraordinary experience that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. I had the privilege of working across two departments Production and the Partnership Team each offering unique challenges and invaluable lessons.” Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, an organisation renowned for connecting young talent to meaningful work, played a pivotal role in ensuring that participants gained market-relevant skills, increasing their employability beyond the scope of the event itself. According to Global Citizen’s Director of Africa Youth Development Lipalesa Morake, the collaboration is just the beginning: “Our partnership has been incredibly rewarding. We look forward to returning to Rwanda next year, continuing to empower young people, and creating even more opportunities for the next generation of world class talent.” As Rwanda strengthens its role as a hub for youth empowerment and the creative economy, initiatives like Move Afrika highlight the transformative potential of collaboration. Beyond unforgettable performances, they open doors to employment, professional networks, and youth empowerment, spotlighting the voices and talents of Africa’s rising generation.
