Joyous Celebration left an unforgettable mark on the Rwandan audience and international guests who attended the concert, performing their popular hits such as Bekani Ithemba, Alikho Lelifana, Awesome is Your Name, I Am the Winner, Who Am I, Wenzile, Wakhazimula, Tambira Jehova, Iyo Calvari, and many others that have garnered millions of views on YouTube.

The concert, named Joyous Celebration Live in Kigali, was a soul-stirring event that touched the hearts of many through the group’s powerful performances, alongside additional guest performances by Rwanda’s Alarm Ministries and Rwandan artist based in Canada Gentil Misigaro. The event attracted thousands attendees from Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

With lively and deeply inspiring songs, Joyous Celebration shook the walls of BK Arena as they performed for the first time in Rwanda, delivering a message of hope and faith through their energetic and anointed worship. Gentil Misigaro and Alarm Ministries also played an essential role in bringing many people closer to the presence of God through their uplifting ministry.

A Glimpse into the Historic Joyous Celebration Journey

Joyous Celebration is a renowned gospel group based in South Africa, dedicated to worship and praise since its inception in 1994. Founded by three influential gospel musicians—Lindelani Mkhize, Jabu Hlongwane, and Mthunzi Namba—the group has become one of Africa’s most iconic gospel ensembles.

In April 2011, the group launched their international ministry called My Gift to You, a six-day tour that garnered significant attention. On March 2, 2015, Joyous Celebration released their 19th album titled Back to the Cross, which reached the top of the South African music charts within just two weeks, selling over 51,271 copies. This success earned them recognition at the South African Music Awards (SAMA), where they have received numerous accolades throughout the years.

Their Joyous 22 All for You Tour in June 2018, which spanned five days, was another milestone in their international ministry, performing in cities like Midburg, Tshwane, and Gauteng.

Joyous Celebration has enjoyed an impressive string of award wins, including multiple South African Music Awards (SAMA), Crown Gospel Awards, and One Gospel Awards. They also received the Africa Gospel Music Award in 2013 and 2014, solidifying their status as one of Africa’s leading gospel acts.

Their record of achievement includes accolades in various categories such as Best Album, Best Live DVD, and Best Gospel Artist in the South African Music Awards. The group’s influence has extended beyond South Africa, collaborating with major music labels like Sony Music and Universal Music, and has made them a household name across Africa and beyond.

Joyous Celebration’s 2024 World Tour and Kigali Concert

Joyous Celebration’s tour in 2024, known as the Joyous Celebration 28 Summer Tour, marks a significant chapter in their global ministry. The tour includes six major performances across the year’s end, with Rwanda being one of the key stops. The December 29 performance in Kigali is one of the highlights, as the group joined other notable gospel performers to bless Rwandan audiences.

Before Kigali, Joyous Celebration had performed across Southern Africa, starting in Kimberly on December 7, followed by Johannesburg on December 15, and Mafikeng on December 16. The group then performed in Lilongwe, Malawi, on December 20, before wrapping up their tour with a performance in Durban on December 31, 2024, at the ICC.

Their historic debut in Rwanda was a celebration of faith, unity, and the power of music in spreading the gospel. The event was organized by Sion Communication and Zaburi Nshya Events and will be remembered as one of the most significant gospel concerts in the country’s history.

PHOTOS: Israel Nziyavuze - Sion Communications