On Sunday, December 22, First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined thousands of attendees at BK Arena for the 11th edition of the annual Christmas Carols Concert. Organized by Chorale de Kigali, Rwanda’s premier Catholic Church choir, the event is a beloved tradition aimed at ushering Christians into the festive Christmas spirit.
The concert also attracted notable figures, including Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, senior government officials, and prominent personalities. By 6 p.m., media hosts Kate Gustave and Egidie Bibio Ingabire set the stage for the evening’s performances, with the audience eager to enjoy the renowned choir’s musical offerings.
Chorale de Kigali opened the night with powerful renditions of classic Christmas hymns like Carols of the Bells, Vierge Marie, The Lord’s Prayer, Alleluya Umukiza Yavutse, and Turakuramutsa Mubyeyi. Their energetic and captivating performance delighted the audience, setting a jubilant tone for the evening.
The event featured a special performance by a choir of children aged 10 to 15 from Ecole Sainte Bernadette, Kamonyi. Their lineup included songs like Il Est Né, Glorious, Courage to Change, and Do Re Mi, showcasing youthful talent before Chorale de Kigali returned for the second session.
Jean Claude Hodari, President of Chorale de Kigali, expressed his joy at the concert’s ability to unite people in celebration of Christ. “We aim to bring together all believers in Christ, without exception,” he stated.
The choir’s final session kept the crowd on their feet, dancing and celebrating with joy until the event concluded at 10:30 p.m. The night closed with a prayer led by Cardinal Kambanda, who extended Christmas and New Year wishes to all attendees.
Founded in 1966 by a group of music graduates from seminary schools, Chorale de Kigali has hosted this flagship pre-Christmas event annually since 2013, cementing its place as a cherished tradition in Kigali’s festive calendar.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungirehe was among government official who attended the annual concert at BK Arena
