Gospel duo Vestine & Dorcas have announced the end of their partnership with MIE Empire, saying the split marks the start of a new phase in their music career. In a press release dated June 13, the singers said the decision takes effect immediately and followed “much reflection and careful consideration.” “Before anything else, we want to express our deepest gratitude to MIE. MIE has been a blessing to us. From the very beginning, they believed in our vision, invested in our dreams, and guided us at a time when we needed it most,” the duo said. ALSO READ: How can artistes avoid falling into exploitation trap by their managers? Vestine & Dorcas said the management team played a role beyond business. They said the team taught, protected and helped shape them as artistes and as people. “We will forever be grateful for the love, support and opportunities they have given us,” they said. The duo said the decision to part ways was not made lightly. They said they are proud of what they achieved under MIE, but believe the time has come to move forward on their own, guided by their vision, values and long-term plans. ALSO READ: Vestine and Dorcas launch debut album in style To their fans, the singers said the split should be seen as a new beginning rather than a closing chapter. “This is not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter. We are excited for what’s ahead and we can’t wait to share it with you,” the statement said. During their time with MIE Empire, Vestine & Dorcas became one of Rwanda’s most visible gospel acts. They released a series of songs that helped build their audience, beginning with “Papa” and “Nahawe Ijambo,” before later releasing “Kisima.” Their music also reached listeners beyond Rwanda through Kiswahili songs that gained traction across East Africa. The partnership also took them to concerts across Rwanda and abroad, helping broaden their regional profile. This was not the first time the duo and MIE Empire publicly announced their separation. In July 2021, M.Irene Entertainment issued a statement announcing a temporary end to its partnership with the gospel duo. The split did not last long, and the two sides later reconciled and resumed working together. The New Times contacted MIE Empire for comment, but its head, Irene Mulindahabi, declined to comment on the matter.
