“Quand on est en amour” gets star-studded revival for humanitarian mission in Rwanda

A classic love song is finding new life in Rwanda, carrying a message that stretches beyond melody. Project Québec Afrique has gathered 150 Québec artists and eight of Rwanda’s leading voices to reimagine “Quand on est en amour,” first made famous by Patrick Norman. The new version brings together Bruce Melodie, Knowless Butera, King James, Juno Kizigenza, Bwiza, Marina, Nicole Musoni, producer Loader, and a children’s choir. ALSO READ: Why signing with giant record labels is a win for Rwandan creative industry Their voices meet in harmony to deliver a call for love, hope and humanity. The project is more than a musical revival. It is designed to promote values of peace and solidarity while supporting humanitarian and development work in Rwanda. Organizers see it as a chance to show how art can bridge cultures and awaken new possibilities. Bruce Melodie said the collaboration came straight from the heart. “This iconic song was the soundtrack of our youth, so recreating it as a Rwandan artist feels surreal,” he said. “What drew me to this project wasn’t just the music but the chance to channel our collective love into something meaningful.” ALSO READ: What two years of sobriety taught rapper Skid about faith, Hip Hop For Marina, the experience became personal after visiting families in need. “Witnessing firsthand how people are struggling was a wake-up call,” she said. “The fact that I could play even a small part in helping felt like a privilege. It completely shifted my perspective.” Cyprien Ntibankundiye, priest and Project Québec Rwanda representative, said the initiative is unfolding in seven steps. Recording sessions are underway in both Québec and Rwanda, paired with behind-the-scenes documentation. The finished music video will launch in both countries before a global release on streaming platforms. Plans also include three fundraising galas in Québec, a landmark concert in Rwanda, and a target of raising $1.75 million (Approx. Rwf2.5 billion) for programs in sustainable agriculture, healthcare, education and training. Participating artists will travel to Québec for the official launch in November. Since 2010, Project Québec Afrique has carried out initiatives in Rwanda ranging from poultry distribution and job creation to building schools and sports infrastructure. Several projects have restored sight to the blind, changing lives in lasting and meaningful ways. This latest effort, built on song and solidarity, carries that spirit forward.

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“Quand on est en amour” gets star-studded revival for humanitarian mission in Rwanda