Rwandans need to develop our own domestic musical talents

The ongoing Tusker Project Fame Season 3 in Nairobi Kenya has made us realize that there is a huge amount of talent in Rwanda that needs to be supported to reach the levels that it truly can. Rwanda’s representatives to this East African event, that is meant to identify and promote East African music potential, have not only shown that they are good singers but they have also promoted the image of the nation as ambassadors. Although some of our representatives weren’t fortunate enough to reach the finals, their performances took many by storm. It was indeed unbelievable for the majority of us to find that such talent is hidden in our land. Actually, some people weren’t convinced that these contestants were even Rwandan. Alpha Rwirangira’s thrilling performance on Sunday didn’t just help him survive the judges usual unfriendly remarks and help him become the only candidate to escape this week’s probation, but it also took his audience by storm as they enjoyed the young man’s wonderful performance. His performance was at the levels of other East African superstars like Uganda’s Jose Chameleon, Babe Cool and Kenya’s Nameless. This superb performance put Rwanda in the limelight. But the point still remains, where did Alpha come from, a young man with such great talent? Of course the answer is obvious; he’s been here all along and, although embarrassing, its obvious that there hasn’t been the opportunity here in Rwanda to showcase his talents. In fact, I don’t think it would be a lie if I said that this boy might have even more talent than the local artists that we can name on the top of our heads. Why haven’t we heard of him, or others of similar ilk? Because there isn’t enough money in the music industry to make it worthwhile for someone to look at it as a good career choice. My worry is that if Alpha is not lucky enough to win the five million Kenya shillings prize, he’ll lack someone to propel him to greater heights. Do we have corporate companies that have already picked interest in promoting him? Or has the government or the ministry of Youth for that matter thought about it? Something must be done, some people should rise to the occasion. Alpha and his friends (Nina and Christian) have exhibited huge potential that needs the hands of the entire Rwandan populace in order to develop. I am glad that Christian has already declared his intention to carry on from where he stopped in the Tusker Project Fame Academy. It shows great ambition; however, this might be too big for him unless well wishers give him, and all the other great local talent, a helping hand. phatari@yahoo.co.ukThe author is a social commentator and policy analyst.