Story by Divine Umumararungu
Students from East African University Rwanda said performances by The Ben, Bruce Melodie, Bwiza, and Kitoko at the Summer Country Tour concert held in Nyagatare on June 20, 2026, generated a widespread excitement and created memorable experiences for fans, including some who followed the event through social media and other platforms despite not attending in person.
The concert, which is part of a nationwide tour aimed at bringing major music performances closer to fans outside Kigali, attracted large crowds and featured energetic performances, dance groups, and entertaining stage moments throughout the evening.
To understand young people’s views about the event, East African University Rwanda students shared their reactions and expectations for the remaining concerts.
Mukiza Gilbert, a Year 3 Mass Communication and Journalism student and a Bruce Melodie fan, said the artist exceeded his expectations.
“As a Bruce Melodie fan, I was really excited after watching his performance. People often compare big artists and create competition between them, but Bruce Melodie showed great stage energy and knew how to engage his audience. I loved the way he entered the stage, his dancing style, and the energy he brought. It felt like a complete entertainment package. I am also excited for the Bugesera concert because each performance seems to become better than the previous one,” he said.
Ntwali Nelly, a Year 2 Film Making student and supporter of The Ben, said his performance touched her emotionally.
“I have been a fan of The Ben since I was young, so seeing him perform in a place connected to his family background felt special. The happiness he showed on stage made fans feel connected to him. It felt like he was performing for his own people. Songs like ‘Ni Forever’ and ‘Roho Yanjye’ created emotional moments because the audience sang along passionately. I believe the remaining Summer Country Tour concerts will continue touching people’s hearts,” she said.
Mbabazi Emily, a Year 1 student in Leisure, Tourism and Hotel Management, said she enjoys Rwandan music in general rather than supporting one specific artist.
“I do not focus on one artist because I believe each artist brings something unique. What I loved most was seeing people enjoying themselves together without division. It is inspiring to see famous artists moving closer to their fans across the country. It also shows that Rwandan music continues to grow and reach more people,” she said.
After successful concerts in Musanze and Nyagatare, the Summer Country Tour is expected to continue in Nyamata, Bugesera, on June 27 before concluding in Rubavu on July 4, 2026.
Fans are now eagerly waiting to see whether the remaining concerts will create even bigger moments and more unforgettable experiences.
