Multi-Grammy nominated, world renowned composer, guitarist, vocalist and producer Vasti Jackson is in Rwanda for a month long visit to understand the local industry, and give his contribution to building bridges between American and Rwandan artistes and music industry professionals in both countries. His trip will include masterclasses for various schools and music students across Rwanda, recordings, productions, musical experiences, artistes and music professionals’ collaboration and business discussions. The artiste from Mississippi, USA, and a powerful force in the world of music across the globe, came on the invitation of Africa in Colors in partnership with the French Embassy and Institut Français, through the French initiative “Novembre Numerique”, who have since Monday, November 23, been working to build bridges between African players of the cultural and creative industries, and the rest of the world, through on their week-long “The Digi – Date” and “The creative Bus” concepts. ‘The Digi–Date’ concept brought together creative minds, players of the cultural and creative industry across the globe, to meet in Rwanda and present their products, services to the local market in order to connect with local players, public or private institutions, and build relationships that could result in closing deals. ‘The Creative Bus’, a special tour around Kigali, brought together players of the creative industry from various disciplines, to collaborate and create mind-blowing and innovative creations. “We are exploring new ways to generate ideas and create innovative and outstanding products that could be implemented in our everyday lifestyle through art and artistes. “This concept is also part of a research study and a survey exercise to explore ways, new environments that could help and call more creatives to create and innovate,” says Raoul Rugamba, the founder of Africa in Colors. As a way of giving back to the community, Jackson will be transferring his knowledge and skills to the younger generations in Africa and across the globe. His time in Rwanda will also see cultural exchanges through music, record and production of tracks with local artistes.
