Rwanda’s creative scene is buzzing as plans hot up for the Trace Festival at the Kigali Convention & Exhibition Village (KCEV), Kigali, Rwanda, 20-22 October 2023.

To buy your tickets for the Trace Festival, priced 2,500 RWF (under 18) and 5,000 RWF (over 18), please go to https://tracefestival.hustlesasa.shop.

Unfolding over three days and nights, the Trace Festival aims to put Rwandan creativity and the country’s flourishing creative economy on the map in a celebration of music, entertainment, fashion, food, design, photography, arts & crafts, hair and beauty, home decor and much, much more.

A host of Rwandan and international musical talent has been added to the lineup while Rwandan creators and brands have flocked to be part of the dynamic marketplace.

Among the highlights to look out for at the Trace Festival are:

-Rwandan headliners and hitmakers: Bruce Melodie, Sema Sole, Angell Mutoni, Boy Chopper, Mike Kayihura, Tsonpa, Ish Kevin and Kenny K-Shot.

-International bangers: Performances by international artists including special guest performer Nomcebo plus fellow Trace Awards nominees Roseline Layo, Gerilson Insrael, Soraia Ramos, Lisandro Cuxi, Donovan BTS, Gaei, Mik’l, and Goulam.

-Hot DJ action from: DJ Illans, DJ Hottempah Collective, DJ Fans-T, DJ Higa, DJ Rusam, and DJ Irah.

-Sunday “Block Party”: A closing jam with sizzling Rwandan and international artists including lam, Kivumbi King, Maalhox, Mani Bella, Koppo, Lisandro Cuxi, Mike Kayihura, and Gerilson Insrael.

-Hot Looks and Trends in Fashion and Beauty: Fashion showcases & tutorials, beauty treatments and super-glam Trace Awards looks to get you camera-ready for the red carpet.

-Uplifting Gospel vibes: A heavenly Sunday gospel concert with The Soweto Gospel Choir, Benjamin Dube, KS Bloom, and local heroes Nyundo School of Music Art, and Ubuhanzi Cohort.

-Shopping Dreams & gorgeous goods from: Moshions, House of Tayo, Sonia Mugabo, Inzuki, KT'SOBtE, Maison Munezero, Uzi Collection, Rwanda Clothing, N'intoki, Ki-pepeo Kids, Wearfragile, Bibi Creations, Kalunza, Ahaya Links, Irebe, Mwinda, Tugirimana, Art Rwanda Ubuhanzi, KomezArt, Wood Habitat, Lisa Marler, Laini, In Wood, Mass Made, and Master Weavers.

-Delicious bites, snacks and treats from: Pat's Bangerz Food Truck, Bunz, Choma'd, A La Brunch, Akwaaba Kigali, Issa Brochettes, Turambe Salad Bar, Jollof Kigali, Torino's, Vital Organics, and BICU.

 -Stimulating conference sessions on: Music rights, the edutainment revolution, the creative economy, sustainable fashion, songwriting, content creation and much, much more.

The Trace Festival opens at 16H00 on Friday 20 October and continues until 20H00 on Sunday 22 October.  

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expected to make their first official visit to Kenya this October.

According to a statement from the official Royal Family page, King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to tour Kenya from October 31 to November 3.

''The visit will take place from Tuesday 31st October to Friday 3rd November 2023, and will celebrate the warm relationship between the two countries and the strong and dynamic partnership they continue to forge.'' reads the statement

Adding ''The visit is at the invitation of President Ruto and comes as Kenya prepares to celebrate 60 years of independence. His Majesty’s first visit to a Commonwealth nation as King is therefore to the country in which Queen Elizabeth II’s reign began, having acceded to the throne in Kenya in February 1952.''

This will be King Charles's first official visit to Kenya since he was crowned King in May 2023, and a historical one as this is the country in which his mother was announced Queen Elizabeth II, having acceded to the throne in Kenya in February 1952.

The King and Queen will visit Nairobi City County, Mombasa County and surrounding areas.

Their Majesties’ programme will reflect the ways in which Kenya and the United Kingdom are working together, notably to boost mutual prosperity, tackle climate change, promote youth opportunity and employment, advance sustainable development and create a more stable and secure region.

During the visit, Their Majesties will meet President Ruto and the First Lady as well as and other members of the Kenyan Government, UN staff, CEOs, faith leaders, young people, future leaders and Kenyan Marines training with UK Royal Marines.

The King will also attend an event to celebrate the life and work of the Nobel Laureate the late Professor Wangari Maathai, together with Wangari’s daughter, Wanjira Mathai.

The King and Queen’s programme will celebrate the close links between the British and Kenyan people in areas such as the creative arts, technology, enterprise, education and innovation.

The visit will also acknowledge the more painful aspects of the UK and Kenya’s shared history, including the Emergency (1952-1960).

"His Majesty will take time during the visit to deepen his understanding of the wrongs suffered in this period by the people of Kenya.'' reads part of the statement.

Together, Their Majesties will tour a new museum dedicated to Kenya’s history and will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Uhuru Gardens, as well as visiting the site of the declaration of Kenya’s independence in 1963.

The King and Queen’s programme also will include:

• Their Majesties will be greeted in Nairobi with a ceremonial welcome at State House and will each attend bilateral meetings – The King with The President and The Queen with the First Lady, before The President hosts a State Banquet at State House.
• His Majesty will visit the United Nations Office at Nairobi, to learn more about the work of UN Habitat and the UN Environment Programme. UNON is the only UN Headquarters in the Commonwealth.
• His Majesty will attend a technology showcase, meeting Kenyan entrepreneurs who are driving forward innovation in the country’s tech sector. Kenya has the third largest start up eco-system in Africa.
• His Majesty will host a reception focussed on Kenya’s young people and future leaders across development, trade, media, the creative arts and environmental conservation.
• Their Majesties will visit a Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery, joining British and Kenyan military personnel in an act of Remembrance, before hearing about the Commission’s recent work to ensure all those who supported Britain’s efforts in both World Wars are commemorated.
• The King and Queen will visit Nairobi National Park to witness the vital conservation work being undertaken by the Kenya Wildlife Service, which is integral to Kenya’s thriving tourism industry.
• Her Majesty, Patron of the equine welfare charity Brooke, will hear how the charity is working with the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals to rescue donkeys at risk and promote their welfare.
• The King, as Captain General of the Royal Marines, and The Queen, will visit Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa. There, Their Majesties will witness Kenyan Marines, trained by the Royal Marines, demonstrating a covert beach landing, showing defence collaboration in action.
• The Queen will meet survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, learning how they are supported and sharing her own insights from working in this area.
• The King will meet faith leaders from Mombasa’s diverse community, hearing how they are working together to promote harmony amongst the city’s population.

Nigerian music legend, entrepreneur and philanthropist D’Banj, and Angolan supermodel and fashion icon Maria Borges have been revealed as the hosts of the first Trace Awards in Rwanda.

Presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell, the Trace Awards will take place at the BK Arena, Kigali, Rwanda on 21 October 2023.

D’Banj and Maria Borges will preside over a star-studded lineup of 60+ performers and nominees at the Trace Awards including Davido (Nigeria), Nomcebo (South Africa), Yemi Alade (Nigeria), Mr Eazi (Nigeria), Blxckie (South Africa), Bruce Melodie (Rwanda), Bwiza (Rwanda), Chriss Eazy (Rwanda), Didi B (Ivory Coast), Dystinct (Morocco), Janet Otieno (Kenya), Josey (Ivory Coast), Lisandro Cuxi (Cape Verde), Locko (Cameroon), Mikl (Reunion), Perola (Angola), Plutonio (Mozambique), Princess Lover (Martinique), Ronisia (France), Rutshelle Guillaume (Haïti), Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde), Tayc (France), Terrell Elymoor (Mayotte), The Compozers (Ghana), Viviane Chidid (Senegal), Azawi (Uganda), BNXN (Nigeria), Camidoh (Ghana), Danni Gatto (Cape Verde), Donovan BTS (Mauritius), Emma’a (Gabon), Bamby (French Guiana), GAEI (Madagascar), Gerilson Insrael (Angola), Goulam (The Comores), Kader Japonais (Algeria), Krys M (Cameroon), K.O (South Africa), KS Bloom (Ivory Coast), Levixone (Uganda), Moses Bliss (Nigeria), Musa Keys (South Africa), Nadia Mukami (Kenya), Maureen (Martinique), Pabi Cooper (South Africa), Segael (Réunion), the Soweto Gospel Choir (South Africa).  

The latest additions to the lineup include Artmasta (Tunisia), Ko-c (Cameroon), Odumodublvck (Nigeria), Pheelz (Nigeria) and Roselyne Layo (Ivory Coast).

Also in town to attend the Awards and to appear at the Trace Festival are Benjamin Dube (South Africa), BNXN (Nigeria), DJ Illans (Reunion), Josey (Ivory Coast), Juls (Ghana), Moses Bliss (Nigeria) and Show dem Camp (Nigeria).

Known for his groundbreaking contributions to the African music industry, D’Banj is a towering figure in the world of African music and entertainment whose music career has spanned more than two decades.

His journey in the music industry began in the early 2000s when he burst onto the scene with his unique blend of Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and contemporary music genres.

His mesmerising stage presence, magnetic charisma, and captivating live performances quickly endeared him to fans both in Africa and across the world, helped by an extensive repertoire of chart-topping hits such as "Oliver Twist," "Fall in Love," "Scapegoat," and "Mr. Endowed."  "Oliver Twist" performed exceptionally well, reaching the top ten on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at Number Two.

 D'Banj's signing to Kanye West's G.O.O.D Music record label in June 2011 was a significant milestone for him and for African artists.  As the first African artist to achieve a global top ten with "Oliver Twist" in the UK, D’Banj contributed to the African music industry and pioneered the representation of African artists internationally.

D’Banj’s music has topped the African charts and found resonance on the international stage but he still finds time for many other activities, and has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his commitment to empowering African youth through his Koko Foundation.

Another notable contribution to the music industry is his Cream Platform, an innovative talent discovery and support platform that aims to showcase and promote emerging African artists.

It provides a unique opportunity for young talents to gain exposure, access mentorship, and collaborate with established industry professionals. By nurturing and supporting aspiring musicians, D'Banj continues to contribute to the growth and development of the African music scene, supporting African talent with funds, videos and other industry access.

Stunning Angolan supermodel and catwalk star, Maria Borges first burst onto the fashion scene in 2010 when she signed with prestigious agency Supreme Management. Soon she was walking the runways for the world’s fashion elite including fashion designers from Balmain to Banana Republic, Diane von Fürstenberg to Dior, and from Emporio Armani to Erdem.

Her appearance on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway in 2013 catapulted her into international stardom and she has subsequently appeared in campaigns for Givenchy, Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, Bobbi Brown, C&A, L'Oréal, Mac Cosmetics, and Forever 21.

In 2017, she featured on the cover of Elle magazine in the USA, making headlines and promoting diversity and natural beauty in the fashion world by becoming the first African woman to wear natural short hair on the cover of the magazine.  

Commented Olivier Laouchez, Co-founder & Chairman of Trace, “D’Banj and Maria Borges are the perfect hosts for the inaugural Trace Awards. As trailblazers in the music and fashion industries, respectively, they have inspired countless young people, pushed the boundaries of creativity, and had a major cultural impact in Africa and around the world. We look forward to welcoming them to Rwanda in October for an unforgettable night celebrating African and Afro-inspired music and culture.”

Added D’Banj, “It’s a great honour to co-host the first Trace Awards in Africa and lead this amazing celebration of African and Afro-origin music for music fans around the world. I can’t wait to get to Rwanda and connect with all the incredible artists nominated and performing at the Trace Awards

And from Maria, "I am deeply humbled and incredibly excited to host the inaugural Trace Awards. Doing this in Rwanda, this beautiful nation, with its rich history and resilient spirit, will make this occasion all the more special for me. Celebrating the best Afro-centric musical achievements in Rwanda, with D’Banj, and surrounded by such incredible warmth and culture, is truly an honour I will cherish."  

Targeted at lovers of African and Afro-inspired music and culture, the Trace Awards will broadcast live on 21 October 2023 on Trace TV, radio and digital channels and on global streaming platforms (YouTube), national terrestrial TV and satellite channels. The viewership and social interaction is expected to exceed 500 million fans in 190 countries.

You can buy your ticket from www.ticqet.rw priced from 20,000 RWF. To get close up and personal to your favourite stars, try the “Ubumwe” fan zone (30,000 RWF).  For a 25% discount on all tickets, sign up for the BK Arena Prepaid Card.

Rwandan creativity and excellence are represented by the involvement of BK Arena, RwandAir, RBA and Kiss FM as partners to the Trace Awards & Festival.

Visitors to the Trace Awards and Festival in Rwanda are eligible for a 15 percent discount on RwandAir flight prices to Kigali using the code TRACE23.  

A new Kenyan crime film MTAA YANGU has premiered at leading cinemas countrywide with a successful premiere event held last week (6th October 2023) at Anga Diamond Plaza. MTAA YANGU is currently screening at Motion Cinema, Greenspan Mall in Donholm, Anga Diamond Plaza, Prestige Plaza and Century Cinemax Junction.

Tickets to watch MTAA YANGU are going for Ksh. 1,090 and available via Kenyabuzz.  

Prepare to be transported to a world of intrigue and drama as themes including love, betrayal, greed and corruption take centre stage in Kenya’s latest cinematic masterpiece featuring Makovo Mbatha (plays Gunner Kiprotich G), Benta Wesonga (plays Wambui Kamau), Emily Nene (plays Catherine Njeri) and Mary Kinya (plays Nancy Lubanga).

The action-filled film, directed by Likale Washington Muyonga, is centered around Kiprotich - a local gang leader and his gang members who benefit from exploiting locals by forcefully collecting illegal ‘tax’ from them. Residents of Mwiki Town suffer from that but ironically still take refuge and security from Gunner ‘G’ - the crime lord.

As if the unrest isn’t enough for the locals, they start to receive eviction leaflets from the area MP (Okelo) - played by Nathan Songa, the Governor who has an intention of attracting foreign investment. Mwiki Town is engulfed in unrest, as the residents demand for their rights and place of home. 

Gunner ‘G’ is forced to get into talks with the MP, who turns a deaf ear to the plight of the residents. An entitled G feels betrayed, especially following the fact that he helped the MP win and get into power illegally. After their heated meeting, the MP plots G’s murder using two rogue cops: Lurther and Ben. 

G finds love in Catherine Njeri - a resident of the area. In an operation, Ras - one of G’s gang members, kills Njeri’s brother. With the knowledge that this might jeopardize his relationship with Njeri, he decides to bury the truth about her brother’s death, unbeknownst of the guilt that would tear him apart. 

He decides to send Njeri to a medical school, as a means of running away from facing the truth and his guilt. To save the residents of Mwiki and his relationship, G hatches a plan to quit a life in crime.  However, he first has to rob money from the MP.  Will he succeed? 

MTAA YANGU shall simultaneously premiere Worldwide, to all 195 Countries & Territories, via Digital Cinema Extension - MyMovies.Africa™, to #RentFor2Days.

“This is the second Likale Washington Muyonga feature Film on MyMovies.Africa™”, says Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, Co-Founder, CEO & Content Director at Award-winning Kenyan Entertainment Technology Start-up – YAKWETU™, owner of the Service. “A year ago we premiered his TESTED globally too.  As you can see, we are Committed to making Kenyan and African stories, by Kenyan and African filmmakers, available across The Motherland and to her Diaspora.”

A new Kenyan crime film MTAA YANGU has premiered at leading cinemas countrywide with a successful premiere event held last week (6th October 2023) at Anga Diamond Plaza. MTAA YANGU is currently screening at Motion Cinema, Greenspan Mall in Donholm, Anga Diamond Plaza, Prestige Plaza and Century Cinemax Junction.

Tickets to watch MTAA YANGU are going for Ksh. 1,090 and available via Kenyabuzz.  

Prepare to be transported to a world of intrigue and drama as themes including love, betrayal, greed and corruption take centre stage in Kenya’s latest cinematic masterpiece featuring Makovo Mbatha (plays Gunner Kiprotich G), Benta Wesonga (plays Wambui Kamau), Emily Nene (plays Catherine Njeri) and Mary Kinya (plays Nancy Lubanga).

The action-filled film, directed by Likale Washington Muyonga, is centered around Kiprotich - a local gang leader and his gang members who benefit from exploiting locals by forcefully collecting illegal ‘tax’ from them. Residents of Mwiki Town suffer from that but ironically still take refuge and security from Gunner ‘G’ - the crime lord.

As if the unrest isn’t enough for the locals, they start to receive eviction leaflets from the area MP (Okelo) - played by Nathan Songa, the Governor who has an intention of attracting foreign investment. Mwiki Town is engulfed in unrest, as the residents demand for their rights and place of home. 

Gunner ‘G’ is forced to get into talks with the MP, who turns a deaf ear to the plight of the residents. An entitled G feels betrayed, especially following the fact that he helped the MP win and get into power illegally. After their heated meeting, the MP plots G’s murder using two rogue cops: Lurther and Ben. 

G finds love in Catherine Njeri - a resident of the area. In an operation, Ras - one of G’s gang members, kills Njeri’s brother. With the knowledge that this might jeopardize his relationship with Njeri, he decides to bury the truth about her brother’s death, unbeknownst of the guilt that would tear him apart. 

He decides to send Njeri to a medical school, as a means of running away from facing the truth and his guilt. To save the residents of Mwiki and his relationship, G hatches a plan to quit a life in crime.  However, he first has to rob money from the MP.  Will he succeed? 

MTAA YANGU shall simultaneously premiere Worldwide, to all 195 Countries & Territories, via Digital Cinema Extension - MyMovies.Africa™, to #RentFor2Days.

“This is the second Likale Washington Muyonga feature Film on MyMovies.Africa™”, says Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, Co-Founder, CEO & Content Director at Award-winning Kenyan Entertainment Technology Start-up – YAKWETU™, owner of the Service. “A year ago we premiered his TESTED globally too.  As you can see, we are Committed to making Kenyan and African stories, by Kenyan and African filmmakers, available across The Motherland and to her Diaspora.”

Kenyan rising star, Savinnah, is set to heat up the airwaves with her latest release, 'Wondering'.

In this enticing and infectious track, Savinnah fearlessly embraces the allure of a one-night fling, creating a captivating and memorable listening experience for her fans.

With 'Wondering', Savinnah expertly blends a slow, soothing beat with a rhythmic flow that irresistibly targets the heart and waistline of its listeners.

The mellow feel of the song beckons its audience to move and groove to its seductive melodies.

In this captivating tune, Savinnah tells the story of a fateful encounter with a mysterious stranger.

Fuelled by desire and passion, she sets the stage for an extraordinary night of happiness, togetherness, and love.

'Wondering' celebrates the freedom and excitement that can be found in a temporary connection, emphasizing the joy of living in the moment.

Savinnah's undeniable talent as a singer and songwriter shines through in 'Wondering'.

Her sultry vocals intertwine effortlessly with the well-crafted lyrics, painting a vivid picture of emotion and desire.

The song's catchy chorus and infectious hook are guaranteed to get stuck in listeners' heads, further cementing Savinnah as a force to be reckoned with in the Kenyan music scene.

As an emerging artist, Savinnah continues to make waves with her unique sound and honest storytelling.

Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, she fearlessly explores themes that resonate with her audience, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners.

"Wondering' marks yet another milestone in Savinnah's promising career.

With its irresistible charm and alluring lyrics, the song is a testament to her artistry and ability to captivate audiences with her magnetic presence.

Youth affairs Permanent Secretary (PS) Ismail Maalim has urged the youth to tap into the opportunities that are in the government, so that they can contribute to the transformation of the economy.

Speaking during the fourth day of the Pwani Innovation Week, Maalim who was the chief guest said the government has set up a number of opportunities to help alleviate youth unemployment in the country.

Maalim regretted that most youth in the country lack the right information when it comes to the opportunities urging the youth to always be seeking information from the different government channels of information.

"Our youth lack the right information. I would like to encourage them to be visiting the different government websites, we have alot of opportunities from the government but they will not come to you where you are , it is upon you to get out of your comfort zone and look for this opportunities and one way is by you visiting the government websites." said Maalim.

Maalim noted that the government has cut down the bureaucracies that were previously being experienced when trying to access government opportunities and services.

Maalim charged "We no longer have those bureaucracies like in the past. Stop complaining of bureaucracy yet you have not yet even tried the opportunities, come out and seize the opportunity."

On his part Transport Permanent Secretary (PS) Mohammed Daghar challenged the youth to be innovative and utilise their time.

"This youthful age does not come with a manual, use your time well. Dream big and work towards achieving your dreams dont just sit and wait for others to create for you the opportunities" said Daghar.

Adding " "Innovation is not only associated with technology. It also ensures that we have a blend with the government , community and the society at large. We are exploring ways to enhance some projects we have .We are exploring public-private initiatives in doing development agendas."

He further challenged the youth to be courageous and brave when seeking opportunities.

Daghar noted "In the past you could not see a PS of my age but now here we are, so let us go out of our way in ensuring that we build our future and the country."