In love with Rwanda

DANIEL SABIITI discovers Ziggy Dee’s quest to promote music in the region “Rwanda has a lot potential and I am here to explore ways of helping young artists in the country,” explains Ziggy Dee, who has been touring the southern and eastern provinces. The star, best known for his debut hit ‘Eno Mic’ in 2000, traveled and performed in Muhanga, Kayonza district and was planning to perform at the National University of Rwanda in Butare. The tour was disrupted due to ill health but he has promised to complete his Rwanda calling. Some young Rwandan artists have already begun benefiting from his tour. The Ugandan celebrity, undoubtedly the first Ugandan artist to perform upcountry in Rwanda, performed with 2DoveJoe, Diane Muteteri, Mc Tino, and Mzee Gakuru Frank PHD. Ziggy also managed to produce a Kinyarwanda song (Narobye) featuring MC Tino and film video clips with some of the Rwandan artists. The singer is proud to have now worked with musicians in all East African countries. He is confident that this reduces barriers, while also building a wider fan base. The tour was an effort to raise the status of entertainment in Rwanda. “My Rwanda music tour is aimed at raising awareness among young Rwandan artists and create a relationship between with Rwandan and Ugandan artists - which could be a starting point for Rwandans to get a new twist in their music industry.” The singer explains that he wants to become a sort of ambassador for Rwandan music and to let other East Africa artists know of the beauty of Rwanda. The renowned East African artist said: “there is a big fan-base in Rwanda and Rwanda has a firm culture which should be a basis for setting an example to other countries around the region and I will work hard to promote the music industry.” He also noted that: “Artists can make a difference…we need each other’s support.” The Ugandan superstar advises Rwandan artists about the music industry: “It is hard and tough, you need to be determined and hard working, focused, innovative, developmental and creative.” “What I can tell the people of Rwanda is that we all have a dream of the EAC as one nation, without division of religion, tribalism, land division and borders.” “Sing and dance with us so we can build East Africa together.” The singer says his next stop is Burundi. Ends