The Ben, Gahongayire, Mbonyi lead Rwandan showbiz personalities nominated for awards

Musician The Ben could potentially scoop two international awards which he has been nominated for, putting him among several Rwandan artistes who are lined up for potential accolades at the international stage. The singer, real name Benjamin Mugisha, is on the potential award winners list following his nomination among the 6th edition of African Entertainment Awards USA (EAEUSA) slated for December 12 in New Jersey, USA. Held annually since 2015, the AEAUSA is the only award giving body that celebrates and honours practitioners across all crafts and industry sectors, including entertainment, entrepreneurship and community leadership. The latest nomination comes days after the R&B singer was shortlisted among nominees battling it out for the Best East African Male Artiste of the Year prize at the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) 2020. The ‘Kola’ star, who returned to Rwanda earlier this year before the New Coronavirus outbreak in March, is in the same category with fellow musician Bruce Melodie, as both seek to win an award of the Best Male Artiste in East, South and North Africa. The duo will be battling it out for the prize against Tanzanian artists Diamond Platnumz, Rayvanny, Alikiba and Ugandan singer Eddy Kenzo, among others. Meanwhile, gospel singers Israel Mbonyi and Aline Gahongayire were both nominated for the Best Gospel Artiste prize, while radio presenter David Bayingana is also targeting to win his first ever international award as a social media influencer. Getting nominations in international music awards is not something new for Rwandan artists winning the accolades remains elusive given the tight competition. However, analysts say even the nomination in itself is big progress for the creative arts industry as it recognizes the efforts and progress made. Over 30 awards will be presented during the two-day event. Nominees: Best Male Artiste- East/South/North Africa Diamond Platnumz Rayvanny Elgrande toto Harmonize The Ben Alikiba Eddy Kenzo Tewodros Kassahun AKA Teddy Afro Jah Prayzah Bruce Melodie Best Gospel Artiste Aline Gahongayire Levixone Sinach Dena Mwana Nathaniel Bassey Glowreeyaah Braimah Israel mbonyi Gloria Muliro Winnie Mashaba Joe Mettle. Best Influencer Platinaline Tunde Ednut Moz Paparazzi The Hot Jem David Bayingana George brittongh Instablog9ja Phylx Entertainment Edgar Obare Victor Kange.