In 2010, Rwanda yet again hosted the biannual Pan-African Dance Festival (FESPAD), which attracted renowned singers from around the world, including Uganda’s Cyndi, Grace Nakimera, Radio and Weasel; Nameless, DJ Stylez (both from Kenya) and Nigeria’s D-Banj. Others were Kofi Olumide (DR Congo), France’s Kassav, Somi (US-based Rwandan singer and songwriter), and award-winning American songstress/actress Lauryn Hill.

Local artistes, Diplomat, Kitoko, Massamba, Miss Jojo, Tom Close, Shanel, and Natty Dread, as well as Holy Jah Doves and the Army Jazz Band also graced the week-long music festival.

The festival opened with a conference on creative industries at Serena Kigali Hotel, and a Jungle Party at Kivu Serena Hotel in Rubavu.

FESPAD showcased cultural dances in several countries, including Burundi, Uganda, Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Congo (Brazzaville) and Gabon. Others represented were Guinea, South Africa, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Algeria, Egypt, Madagascar, Mauritius, Japan, Vietnam, Spain and hosts Rwanda.

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