Five local artists and the National Ballet ‘Urukerereza’, travelled to South Africa, earlier last week head of the grand opening ceremony of the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

The sensational vocalists Miss JoJo, Alpha, Meddy, Kitoto, Massamba and the ‘Urukerereza’ performed in Pretoria on June 11, to thousands of soccer fans at the official FIFA World Cup kick-off celebration concert.

From its conception, event organizers envisioned the inaugural concert showcasing the rich cultural diversity and musical heritage of Rwanda. Artists represented the variety of musical generations and genres of the country and African region.

"South Africans and the guests were impressed by our performances, which was a blend of our traditional music and afrobeat,” Masamba said. "People were really excited and many approached us to express their appreciation.”

"Many also confessed to us that we’re only not Rwandan music ambassadors but Africa’s, because of our rich culture musical skills,” he added.

Masamba revealed that Rwanda was the only country from African that participated in the FIFA 2010 World Cup kick-off celebration concert with no team in the competition.

The concert, by the Rwandan artists was officiated by the Mayor of Pretoria, Gwen Ramokgopa, flanked by his counterpart the Mayor of Kigali City, Dr. Aisa Kirabo Kacyira.

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