Gospel music lovers have had a blast since gatherings resumed after the pandemic’s restrictions. Musicians of the genre showered Rwandans with many concerts that uplifted them. Below are some of the gospel concerts and events that marked 2022. Hillsong London Concert in Kigali During the highly anticipated show at BK Arena on November 25, celebrated gospel group Hillsong London proved yet again that they are the ‘kings of live gospel music’—something they’ve been doing for over 20 years. The crowd’s enthusiastic involvement made the concert even better as people sang along and cheered loudly at the end of every song. Local artiste Aime Uwimana and South African gospel recording artist Benjamin Dube performed as well. Overflow Africa Worship After virtual events and reaching audiences only via digital platforms for the last two years, the Overflow Africa Worship conference gracefully returned to the stage this year. Artistes who performed were Gaby Kamanzi, Papi Clever, and Dorcas, while Maya and Fabrice were hosts together with Heavenly Melodies Rwanda. The line-up also featured acts such as Pompi and his wife Esther from Zambia, Rebekah Dawn from Kenya, Mussie Fisseha from Ethiopia, and Apostle Apollinaire Habonimana from Burundi. Rise & Shine Gospel Talent Hunt Competition The competition was launched in March this year and kicked off with a selection of talented singers from around the country. Organisers took the event to all provinces across the country as they discovered new talents. The winner’s cash prize was Rwf 300,000; 1st runner-up was Rwf 100,000 and Rwf 50,000 for the 2nd runner-up. Israel Mbonyi Tour in Israel Dubbed ‘Twende Jerusalem’, Gospel music star Israel Mbonyi had a one-week tour in Israel during which he performed at a mega concert alongside Israeli singer, Avraham Tal. The tour was initiated by the Israel Embassy in Rwanda and organised by Go Tell World Exposures. He explored different places in different cities including the Dead Sea, Jericho, Mount Carmel, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Canaan, Tiberius, Galilee, Golgotha, and Mount Tabor. Worship Legacy Concert Organised by BAHAFRICA Ent and Gisubizo Ministry, the concert was a night to remember for gospel music lovers at Christian Life Assembly (CLA) church located in Nyarutarama. Performances included ‘Humura’ ‘Umuremyi’ and ‘Amaraso’ among other songs, which had people on their feet as they rejoiced. There were also performances by Bosco Nshuti, Alarm Ministries, Shekinah Worship Team and Aime Frank. Alarm Sound Live Concert: Season One Renowned gospel ministry, Alarm Ministries had a solo concert at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV). Even though they were the only performers, revellers came through and had an amazing time. They also got to listen to songs the ministry had been recording for more than two years. Vestine and Dorcas' album launch It was an evening of praise and worship as renowned gospel duo Vestine and Dorcas, on December 24, launched their debut album in a concert held at Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village. Highlights included amazing performances, a Rwf 1M donation by Apostle Mignonne Kabera, and Actress Aliah Cool’s purchase of a CD at Rwf 2M, while other fans bought it between Rwf20, 000 to 1.2M. ‘Icyambu’ concert This one was a night for the books. Gospel music sensation Israel Mbonyi’s sold-out ‘Icyambu’ concert at BK Arena on Sunday, December 25, was the perfect end to the year, for gospel lovers. Mbonyi was shown so much love that even when he left the stage, the audience still yearned for more.
