Cyprien Rugamba and Kamariza are often admired as two of the best musicians Rwanda has ever had. Young artists even draw inspiration from their music while others perform their songs at different events to honor their legacy in music.

In an award-giving gala held on Rwanda Television on Saturday, December 26, the duo was recognised with the ‘Legend Achievement Awards’ to honor their major achievements during their time in music.

The award, which is in its second edition, is an initiative of showbiz TV personality Luckman Nzeyimana, who hosts ‘Versus’, an entertainment TV broadcast on Rwanda Television.  

Kamariza and Rugamba’s families were at the event to receive the awards on their behalf.  

Though they are deceased, Nzeyimana said that it is important to honor their role and contribution to the growth of Rwandan music. 

"There is a reason people still want to listen or even sing the songs of Rugamba and Kamariza. It’s because their messages are so touching. They are legends and deserve credit for their legacy in Rwandan music and we are happy to see their families and artists joining us in this cause,” Nzeyimana said.

Rugamba and Kamariza were both represented at the awards. The former was represented by his first-born Olivier Rugamba while Maria Uwanjye received the award on behalf of her younger sister Kamariza.

Each was given an award accompanied by a cheque of Rwf500,000.

Before handing over the awards, a documentary for each of them, about their life in and out of music until they passed away, was screened.

To celebrate the duo, Ibrahim Cyusa led his cultural troupe to perform some of Rugamba’s popular songs like ‘Imena-gitero’ and ‘Icyifuzo’ while Ange and Pamela’s vocals reminded people of Kamariza’s voice while performing ‘Kunda ugukunda’, ‘Imaragahinda’ and ‘Naraye ndose’ among others.

The two young artists are popularly known for performing Kamariza’s songs at different cultural events.

Kamariza, born Annonciata Mutamuriza, is one of the best musicians that Rwanda has produced and people never stop listening to her popular songs like Kunda ugukunda, Humura Rwanda, Umutoni, Mbabare ngirente and Sinakwanze.

Her music portrayed a good future for Rwanda and helped a lot in boosting morale during the liberation struggle.

To date, she is still considered among the icons of the liberation struggle and a patriot.  

Kamariza died in a car accident in 1996. Although she died two decades ago, her legacy lives on and many are committed to keeping it alive.

During the award-giving event, an emotional Uwanjye said that she always celebrates her sister because her music is still inspiring society in a way or another.

"The fact that Kamariza is celebrated is no longer a surprise to me. It’s pride instead because people still refer to her and are inspired by her music,” Uwanjye said.

Cyprien Rugamba, one of Rwanda’s most eulogised legends, was the leader of ‘Amasimbi n’Amakombe’.

 He was known for his songs such as ‘Ubuhanga Buhanitse’, ‘Urungano’, and ‘Imenagitero’ as well as other songs that are used today in the Rwandan Catholic Church.

He, alongside his wife Daphrose Mukandanga, was also among the 2018 Unity Award recipients, for playing a big role in fostering unity and fighting discriminatory behavior of the genocidal regime.

The couple established a movement named "Communauté de l’Emmanuel” aimed at fostering unity and peace among Rwandans. 

Their initiative angered the former government consequently leading to their extermination together with their six children.

Rugamba’s family, and some members of Amasimbi n’ Amakombe, were killed by the former presidential guards on April 7, 1994. 

Cultural music artist Ibrahim Cyusa said that he loves performing Rugamba’s songs not only to honor his legacy in music but because he sees him as his idol.

"Though I can’t match him, I am always determined to follow his footsteps. I’ve learned a lot from his music. It’s the reason I love performing his songs so I can grow my music under his inspirations,” Cyusa said.