Bugesera hosted the latest stop of the Summer Country Tour on Saturday, June 27, as an estimated 3,000 music lovers packed Nyamata Stadium for another highly anticipated showdown between Bruce Melodie and The Ben. The concert reignited the debate over which of Rwanda's two biggest music stars commands the larger fan base. Ahead of the event, both artists had claimed victory in previous tour stops, while singer Bwiza expressed confidence that she would shine in Bugesera, her home district. ALSO READ: Summer Country Tour moves to Bugesera as rivalry builds momentum In the hours leading up to the show, Bruce Melodie, The Ben and the production team arrived in Nyamata for final sound and lighting checks. On concert day, the artistes made a grand entrance in a convoy as fans streamed into the stadium wearing T-shirts and face paint in support of their favourite performers. Many waved placards and banners bearing the artists' names and portraits, while organised fan groups marched around the venue singing their favourite songs through loudspeakers and microphones. Hosted by Luckman Nzeyimana, the show began after a brief delay with Kitoko opening the performances. Initially, MCs had announced Bwiza as the first act, with many of her supporters already gathered near the stage waving banners in anticipation. However, the singer never appeared. Shortly afterwards, Bwiza posted on Instagram, saying she had been involved in a road accident while travelling to the venue. I know many of you were looking forward to the show, and it breaks my heart that I couldn't be there with you. Your love, support and understanding mean more to me than words can express, she wrote. The New Times has learned, however, that Bwiza had requested to perform after Kitoko instead of opening the concert. Sources say both Kitoko and the event organisers declined the request, insisting that the running order remain unchanged. According to sources, her absence frustrated organisers, who are now considering dropping her from the lineup for the tour's final show in Rubavu on July 4. Despite the setback, the concert continued without interruption. Kitoko energized the crowd with performances of Rurashonga, Urankunda Bikandenga, Agakecuru Kanjye and Thank You Kagame, receiving the same enthusiastic reception he enjoyed during earlier tour stops in Musanze and Nyagatare. ALSO READ: Why Bruce Melodie, The Ben chose partnership over musical rivalry The Ben followed with a set featuring fan favourites including Sibeza, Ko Wahindutse, Plenty, True Love, Sikosa—a collaboration with Element and Kevin Kade—and Ndaje, featuring Tom Close and Ziggy 55. He wrapped up his performance with Thank You, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. Bruce Melodie closed the night with an energetic performance of hits including Munyakazi, Ndakwanga, Funga Macho, Ikinya, Ikinyafu, Hands Up and Bado. His rendition of Ndakwanga proved to be one of the evening's highlights, with thousands of fans singing every word in unison. The Summer Country Tour will conclude with its final stop in Rubavu on July 4.
