A fellow rap enthusiast once speculated that rap might be cursed in Rwanda—a thought that seemed oddly prescient after heavy rains disrupted the first attempt at this event on December 28 at Canal Olympia, Rebero. However, any notion of a curse was dispelled on January 10, as the Icyumba Cya Rap event at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV) drew an enormous, enthusiastic crowd.
The turnout was remarkable, with attendees filling every inch of the venue. Even the spacious staircase at KCEV was packed, and some chose to watch from the outdoor seating area of the former Camp Kigali mini-stadium. This level of attendance, however, was paired with logistical hiccups, including shuffled acts and missed time slots. Fans like Jules Igabe expressed frustration, particularly over Tuff Gang’s absence from the performance lineup, despite their presence at the venue.
The event was cut short due to Kigali’s curfew regulations, leaving many attendees yearning for more. Nonetheless, the night delivered several standout moments;
- Memorable Performances: Artists such as Sky 2, K8 Kavuyo, Diplomate, Riderman, Bushali, and B Threy energized the crowd with dynamic sets. Notably, Sky 2 ended his performance by bringing his wife on stage, addressing ongoing speculation about her existence.
- Tributes to Legends: A live band from Nyundo Music School honored the late Jay Polly, widely regarded as Rwanda’s greatest rapper, with heartfelt renditions of his iconic songs.
- Collaborative Energy: B Threy and Bushali thrilled the audience with their performance of Kinyatrap and called on Slum Drip to perform their hit Nituebue, a crowd favorite. Rising stars like Diez Dola and Zeo Trap added fresh energy to the lineup, showcasing the genre’s bright future.
- Celebrity Appearances: The star-studded audience included music icons, stylists, and producers, with Anita Pendo thanking contributors like The Ben for supporting local rappers.
- Diplomate’s Rare Set: The hip-hop pioneer captivated the crowd with semi-live renditions of classic tracks, using his platform to express gratitude for Rwanda’s safety and support for the genre’s growth.
While the night ended abruptly, it showcased the potential and resilience of Rwandan hip-hop. As the genre evolves, fans eagerly anticipate what 2025 will bring, with hopes pinned on Tuff Gang’s long-awaited homecoming show.
