Rwanda: La Fouine set for AIC-MOCA fest as Youssoupha withdraws

La Fouine will replace his counterpart at the festival slated for 30 June to 3 July at the Kigali Car-Free Zone. La Fouine joins the likes of Ivorian coupé-décalé band Magic System on the line-up, which will also include local artists.

La Fouine is a French-Moroccan rapper, singer, songwriter and record producer, and the owner of the Street Swagg clothing line.

Youssoupha’s decision to cancel his appearance has been met with mixed reactions. The artist was among the most anticipated artists expected to perform at the festival, but later decided to cancel due to undisclosed reasons.

“The concert was already cancelled several weeks ago,” the French-based Congolese rapper wrote on Twitter on Tuesday. “The African tour means more than anything to me but this concert is now out of the question.”

“It is true, his performance was cancelled,” festival organiser Raoul Rugamba said. “We had some discussions, but couldn’t come up with any solution since we can’t control it at all. We ensure the best in regards to our festival since he was just one of the many international artists coming."

The festival is organised by Africa in Colors (AIC), a Rwandan-based art initiative represented by Raoul Rugamba, and the Movement of Creatives Africas (MOCA), a French-based platform formed by Cameroonian arts entrepreneur Alain Bidjeck. It was held for the first time in Paris, France, last year. It will bring together creatives in music, visual arts, fashion, filmmaking and production, among other creative disciplines.

“To the players of culture and creative industry, in Rwanda, Africa or across the world coming to meet in Kigali, we are working hard to make this festival a memorable moment for you,” Rugamba said. “We will remain committed to deliver a world-class summit and festival for the African culture and creative industry ecosystem to thrive.”