Gospel artist Dominic Ashimwe, who last held a concert in 2016, received immense love from fans during his comeback concert held at Solace Ministries in Kacyiru in 2023.
The concert took place on Friday, March 24 2023, starting at 6:15 PM. As expected from events organized by this artist, the night was filled with memorable moments.
The event was opened by the Worship Team from ADEPR Nyarugenge, which captivated the audience with beautiful voices and multilingual gospel songs emphasizing the significance of the blood of Jesus Christ and the cross. Their performance lasted an hour, setting the tone for the evening.
At exactly 7:15 PM, Dominic Ashimwe made a surprise entrance onto the stage. His face lit up with joy as he took the microphone and greeted the audience, saying, "Thank you for coming." It was evident that he had deeply missed performing for his fans.
Acknowledging Supporters and Fellow Gospel Artists
Before starting his performance, Dominic took time to acknowledge and thank various individuals who had supported him. He first recognized a pastor named Mutoni, who had once encouraged him by saying, "Stop what you are doing and return."
He then honored other gospel ministers, including Pastor Desiré, Apostle Dani—his former primary schoolmate—Aloys, the trainer of Jehovah Jireh Choir, Jado Sinza, the family of Bosco Nshuti, and several others who share strong ties with the gospel music community.
The audience, overwhelmed with emotion upon hearing Dominic’s voice again, erupted into cheers. Many requested him to start singing immediately, and he began with hymn number 149, "Mbes’urukundo rw’Imana yacu," which he performed alongside Maranatha Choir, the group he grew up singing with.
He followed with "Ari Kumwe Natwe," one of his most beloved songs. Next, he performed "Gitare Cyanjye," a song by Mani Martin, incorporating the traditional Ikinimba rhythm. Before singing, he playfully asked the crowd if they knew how to dance, and they responded enthusiastically by joining him in traditional Rwandan dance.
Special Guests and Surprise Moments
During the concert, Dominic welcomed a delegation from Burundi and a supporter named Olivier, who had traveled from Belgium to attend.
Known for his humor, Dominic occasionally teased the audience, asking if they were tired and ready for him to end the concert. In response, they urged him to continue performing. He sang "Ari Kumwe Natwe" and "Ashimwe," with the audience passionately joining in, some even ululating in excitement.
At 8:15 PM, Pastor Desiré Habyarimana took the stage to deliver a sermon based on Psalms 103:1, emphasizing the theme, "Bless the Lord, O my soul."
At 8:55 PM, Dominic returned to the stage wearing a different outfit, a change that surprised and delighted the audience.
Honoring Mani Martin and Other Gospel Artists
A significant highlight was the presence of artist Mani Martin, whom Dominic praised as someone who had helped him achieve his musical dreams. Mani Martin appeared with a new look—thinner and with a shorter haircut.
Dominic also recognized other gospel artists, including Alexis Dusabe, Aime Uwimana, and Neema Marie Jeanne’s family, thanking them for their contributions to gospel music.
At 9:15 PM, he invited gospel singer Bosco Nshuti to the stage, causing the audience to erupt in excitement and request Bosco to perform.
Before singing, Bosco expressed his gratitude to Dominic for giving him his first opportunity to perform at a concert held at New Life Bible Church. Bosco then performed one song.
Future Plans and Upcoming Album
Dominic continued the night with performances of "Nemerewe Kwinjira," "Ntihinduka," and several other songs that got the entire audience on their feet.
After the concert, Dominic spoke to journalists, revealing that this event marked the beginning of his return to music. He shared that he has many unreleased songs and is preparing to release a new album.
He also announced that he is planning more concerts, including an album launch event later this year. This upcoming concert, he hinted, is a “sealed basket” that he will unveil in the coming months.
Dominic assured his fans that resuming his music career would not be difficult, as past obstacles related to family responsibilities and studies had now been resolved.
Enjoy his latest release “Ashimwe”
Dominic with Bishop Aime Uwimana
Dominic with Alex Dusabe
Dominic Ashimwe with Mani Martin