Rwanda gets new music awards

The awards' project manager, Dennis Nsanzamahoro, told local media during a press conference that the inaugural edition of the awards would be held on 1 December in Kigali at a yet to be announced venue.

“These awards seek to recognise artists’ efforts and to motivate them to work even harder in the future,” he said.

“We are looking forward to stiff competition among the local artists in terms of quality music, which I believe will bring positive results to Rwanda’s music advancement.”

Nsanzamahoro also spoke about the motivation behind the new awards.

“It’s a pity to see our artists give it their all yet they continue to be seen as inferior compared to other regional artists, mostly because no one is recognising their efforts.

"We hope these awards will change that in one way or another. However, they have to work hard to ensure their music is liked and listened to,” he said

Rwandese traditional singer and poet Olivier Umusizi Tuyisenge told Music In Africa that if well organised, Music Awards Rwanda would be a huge milestone for the local music industry.

“The idea is good but consistency is key,” he said. “The biggest problem we have in Rwanda when it comes to such initiatives is that they never last. An example is the Salax Awards, which was really hyped then suddenly disappeared. Being consistent for them was one of the hardest things.

"So if the organisers are serious about it then I am glad because it will be a boost for our industry considering the fact that we are the only country in the region with no consistent award platforms.”

Kenny Sol of Yemba Voice said the launch of Music Awards Rwanda would improve the local music industry.

“We really like this as Yemba Voice,” he said. “We think the awards are going to open up opportunities for many artists. Many of us who have been doing music are glad because our efforts will now be recognised locally."

"We also welcome the awards because it is going to create healthy competition between musicians. Everyone will now have to release music that is of high quality."