Kigali is going to host for the first time on the African continent the international festival “Art Fusion Night Rwanda”, which will bring together artists, models, experts in the cultural industry, investors and art lovers from Rwanda and abroad.
This festival will take place from 2 to 4 September 2026, which is going to be held in Kigali after being held in different cities including Dubai and Houston.
“Art Fusion Night Rwanda” was organized in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Rwanda, where the main goal is to create a platform that connects art, technology, business and culture, in order to promote the cultural industry and help artists build sustainable businesses and careers.
DJ Neptune will heat up this festival
Among the celebrities who will participate in “Art Fusion Night Rwanda” is DJ Neptune from Nigeria, one of the most famous DJs on the African continent.
DJ Neptune will give a special talk that will focus on his journey of over 20 years in music, how to build a sustainable career, how to work effectively with others and how to cope with the constant changes in the music industry.
It is also planned that this DJ will warm up the participants of this festival in a show that will be one of the entertainment elements that will increase the uniqueness.
Michael Makembe will return to the role of music in connecting people
Artist Michael Makembe will also be among the participants of the festival, where he will discuss the role of music in bringing people of different cultures and backgrounds together.
He will show how his work based on research, culture and experimenting with different styles can help music to be a tool to preserve history and promote culture.
Kaya Byinshii will give a talk and audience
Kaya Byinshii, an artist known for concerts and international festivals, will also appear in this event.
He will give a talk which will be followed by a Live performance, where he will focus on the importance of maintaining originality in art, having the courage to express yourself and creating art with a message that builds society.
Miss Rwanda 2020 Nishimwe Naomie will also give a speech
The participants of “Art Fusion Night Rwanda” will also have the opportunity to follow the talk of Nishimwe Naomie, who became Miss Rwanda 2020.
He will talk about his book called “More Than a Crown”, share with the participants about his journey, to have a purpose and not just follow the honor or the crown that someone has worn.
This talk will aim to inspire young people to believe in their abilities, set goals and build a future based on a realistic vision.
Returns to the future of cultural industries in Africa
The next speaker will be Rizinde Khalilu Rahman, who will discuss the topic “Designing Africa’s Creative Future”.
This discussion will focus on how Africa can continue to build cultural industries that can compete internationally.
It will be shown that having talent alone is not enough, but there is a need for technology, innovation, investment and good management in order for the arts and culture sector to develop.
Three days full of art, fashion and business
During the three-day “Art Fusion Night Rwanda”, participants will be given the opportunity to enjoy live performances, art exhibitions, fashion, art markets and expert talks.
There will also be opportunities to meet investors and other people working in the cultural industry, events that are expected to open new doors for collaboration and development of their activities for young people and artists.
The organizers of this festival say that their goal is not only to organize a show, but to build a platform that connects artists, investors, business operators and technology experts, so that art can play an important role in economic development.
The fact that Kigali was chosen to host this cultural festival for the first time on the African continent, is considered an opportunity to continue to show Rwanda’s ability to host international events focused on art, culture and the cultural industry.
“Art Fusion Night Rwanda” is also expected to provide a platform for Rwandan artists to meet with important people in the cultural industry, expand interactions and get opportunities to promote their work internationally.
In general, this festival will be an opportunity to celebrate African art, share experiences, create new interactions and develop young talents, while Kigali continues to show itself as a city that can host great international art and entertainment events.
WRITTEN BY HAKIZIMANA ZAWADI
