Several celebrities, including musicians, athletes, journalists, music managers and other public figures, gathered at Atelier du Vin on August 17 for “A Night of Celebrating Yvan Buravan’s Legacy,” an event that combined music, remembrance and cancer awareness. The event honoured the late singer’s contribution to Rwandan music while promoting the Turikumwe Campaign, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about cancer survivorship, encouraging screening and supporting people affected by the disease. The evening also featured the premiere of a remix of one of Buravan’s songs. The event opened with a minute of silence in memory of Buravan, who died of cancer in August 2022. The Target Band then kicked off the performances with some of Buravan’s popular songs, including Oya and Low Key, as family members, friends and fans joined in celebrating his life and musical legacy. Media personality David Bayingana, who was recognised by Buravan’s family for supporting the singer during the early stages of his music career, shared memories of their journey and reflected on their experiences together. Other performances included Uncle Austin, who performed Urwo Ngukunda, his collaboration with the late singer. The Ishyaka Ry’Intore traditional dance troupe also performed Twaje, a song associated with Buravan, who was once part of the troupe. Ruti Joel performed Amaliza, while Ish Kevin delivered Kibasumba before joining the tribute with VIP, his collaboration with Buravan. Cancer awareness takes centre stage Beyond the music and tributes, the event highlighted the Turikumwe Campaign, which seeks to raise awareness about cancer, encourage early screening and support people undergoing treatment. Raissa Umutoni, founder of the YB Foundation and Buravan’s sister, told The New Times that the annual event serves a dual purpose: preserving her brother’s legacy while encouraging communities to take action against cancer. “We are holding YB’s event where we enjoy his legacy, but we are also doing a campaign, an event that we do every year to encourage people to do screening and to encourage those who are in the journey of treatment,” she said. She said the campaign also provides practical support to people undergoing cancer treatment while promoting awareness in communities. “Today we went to Bugesera to support a child who is in treatment of cancer and also encourage people to do screening, and also other things about cancer awareness,” she said. The Turikumwe Campaign focuses on cancer survivorship, with organisers emphasising that cancer is not simply a diagnosis but a journey that requires awareness, treatment, support, hope and community. The campaign seeks to promote prevention and early detection while supporting patients, survivors, caregivers and families. Its activities include community awareness campaigns, visits to people undergoing treatment and initiatives encouraging screening and prevention. The organisers plan to conduct activities wherever people living with cancer can be reached, including homes and cancer centres. Depending on individual needs, the campaign may also provide transportation assistance to help patients attend treatment and medical appointments. Umutoni said the initiative was inspired by the impact cancer has on patients, their families and the wider community. “We wanted to turn awareness into practical support,” she said. The campaign also seeks to reduce stigma and fear surrounding cancer and encourage communities to stand with patients throughout their treatment journey. “Most importantly, we want people to understand that cancer patients should not have to walk this journey alone. As a community, we need to stand with them and support them every step of the way,” she said. Umutoni added that the initiative aims to help patients feel supported and valued, while encouraging their families and communities to better understand cancer and the importance of early detection. Buravan’s music continues to live on American Grammy-nominated blues guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and producer Vasti Jackson also joined the tribute, premiering a remix of Buravan’s Supernatural. The remix is expected to be officially released soon. Umutoni said several unreleased songs by Buravan, including collaborations with other artistes, are also in the pipeline. She added that the YB Foundation will announce the release dates as they approach. Buravan, who was known for his strong connection to Rwandan identity and culture, died of cancer in August 2022. The cancer awareness campaign forms part of efforts to honour his memory by addressing the disease that claimed his life and supporting people affected by cancer. The YB Foundation was established in December 2022 to preserve Buravan’s legacy through initiatives inspired by his life, music and values.
