Fans in Rwanda are eagerly anticipating Grammy award-winning US rapper Kendrick Lamar’s headline performance at the Move Afrika concert set to take place Wednesday evening.
The charity organization Global Citizen, dedicated to combating extreme poverty, has joined forces with Kendrick Lamar’s company pdLang to organize this music event in Kigali.
Expressing his enthusiasm, 32-year-old Jules Gahrima, a devoted Lamar fan, shared with the BBC that he’s prepared a hip-hop-inspired outfit—comprising denim pants, a hoodie, and a cap—to witness his idol’s performance. “He is one of the best artists of our generation,” he said.
Lamar is scheduled to take the stage following performances by Rwandan artists like Bruce Melodie and Ariel Wayz. Additionally, artists from various African countries, including Tanzanian singer Zuche, will also showcase their talent during the concert.
Hosting the event will be none other than Winston Duke, renowned for his role in the film “Black Panther.”
The excitement surrounding the event is evident, with Mr. Gahrima mentioning that tickets sold out swiftly despite their high price point. Some tickets were distributed for free through an online draw.
Move Afrika constitutes a segment of a larger five-year touring series conceptualized by Lamar, set to span across the African continent. Global Citizen emphasized that this series aims to promote health, equity, environmental conservation, and the creation of jobs and economic opportunities within Africa. It seeks to stimulate investment by involving local vendors, agencies, artists, and crews while offering diverse opportunities.
Mr. Gahrima is hopeful that the inaugural concert will pave the way for other global artists not only to visit Rwanda but also to explore opportunities in other African countries.
