In Rwanda, Meddy was the first Gospel artist to reach 1 million followers on Instagram, while Israel Mbonyi became the second to achieve this milestone on January 4, 2026.

This highlights how Rwandan artists, whether in pop or gospel music, continue to make a strong impact on social media, connecting with fans across the globe.

This achievement marks a significant moment in his digital influence and highlights his growing impact both locally and internationally.

Mbonyi, known for his inspirational worship songs and ministry through music, has steadily built a large and engaged audience across digital platforms. While various sources show his official Instagram handle surpassing one million followers, the milestone reflects his continued relevance and connection with fans worldwide.

Born on May 20, 1992, Israel Mbonyi began his journey in gospel music at a young age and has released multiple acclaimed albums that resonate with believers across East Africa and beyond.

His decision to sing in several languages, including Swahili and English, has expanded his reach and strengthened his ministry’s influence across cultural and linguistic lines. He is known for his popular songs, including "Nina Siri," "Nita Amini," and others.

Mbonyi’s rise to this milestone demonstrates the power of worship music in connecting people and spreading messages of faith in the digital era.