Rwandan R&B singer Knowless Butera is set to headline the third edition of Improper Access, an annual concert that provides a platform for female artists and DJs to showcase their talents. Organised by event management company Blackout Inc., the concert will take place at Camp Kigali on October 31. The Kina Music artiste leads an all-women lineup alongside DJs Higa, Senshi, Novia, Joxy Parker, Rusam and Inkel, with more performers expected to be announced. Knowless told The New Times that she was honoured to headline the third edition of Improper Access, promising fans an exciting experience. “Fans should expect an incredible experience, great music and lots of energy,” she said. She thanked her fans for their continued support and encouraged them to attend the concert. “Let’s meet and make this edition unforgettable. I can’t wait to see you all!” she added. Launched in 2024, Improper Access aims to promote female representation in the entertainment industry by giving women opportunities to perform at major events alongside their male counterparts. ALSO READ: How women in visual arts are striving for visibility, growth Bruce Manzi, co-founder of Blackout Inc., said the initiative was inspired by the current limited representation of female performers at major concerts. “We realised that female artists were not receiving the same recognition as their male counterparts, despite having talent. At major concerts, we used to see line-ups dominated by men, with very few women included,” he said. “That is when we started thinking about what we could do to give them a platform to showcase their talents, particularly those who do not receive enough visibility.” Manzi said the first two editions featured artists from other countries, but the organisers later decided to focus on local talent. “We used to invite artists from other countries for the first two editions, but then we asked ourselves why we should spend money bringing in foreign artists when we have talented Rwandan performers who can also attract large audiences,” he said. “That is when we decided to feature Knowless and have an all-Rwandan line-up,” he added. The organisers say the event has helped increase the visibility of female performers since its launch in 2024. Beyond featuring established artists, Improper Access also seeks to give emerging talent an opportunity to gain recognition. According to Manzi, the concert provides a platform for talented female performers who have yet to gain widespread recognition. The inaugural edition took place at Kigali Universe on August 30, 2024, featuring Nigerian artist Dopecaesar, Ugandan singer Etania and Rwandan DJs Brianne, Sonia, Alida and Senshi. The second edition was held at Zaria Court Kigali on June 28, 2025, with South African DJ Blue Aiva as the headline act. Other performers included DJs Niny and Higa, Zuba Mutesi and Muyango, among others. Early-bird tickets cost Rwf15,000 for regular entry and Rwf25,000 for VIP access. During the presale period, regular tickets will cost Rwf20,000, while VIP tickets will go for Rwf35,000. In the final sales round, regular tickets will cost Rwf25,000 and VIP tickets Rwf40,000. Those who purchase tickets at the venue on the day of the concert will pay Rwf35,000 for regular entry and Rwf60,000 for VIP access.
