Another weekend is here, and the major buzz around Kigali, and indeed all of Rwanda, is the general election taking place from Sunday, July 14 to Tuesday, July 16. Candidates have made numerous pledges and presented proposals on how the next generation of Rwandans might benefit from long-term security and prosperity. Aside from the elections, this weekend offers a variety of entertaining activities for all ages. Here are seven events to look into: Indashyikirwa Gakondo Night Start your Friday evening at Igitego Hotel (KG 209 ST). While I haven’t attended personally, Indashyikirwa Cultural Troupe hosts a highly acclaimed live music show there every Friday, much loved by Gakondo music enthusiasts. This week’s show will pay homage to RPF’s presidential candidate, Paul Kagame. Admission is free, and doors open at 6 PM. Rwanda Basketball League Division 2 Playoffs The Men’s Division 2 playoffs begin this Friday, July 12, with games at 6 PM and 8:30 PM. Matches are RP IPRC Musanze vs. Keplerians and Great Virunga vs. UR Kigali at Kimironko Basketball Court, and AZOMCO vs. Elite and Flame vs. East Africa University Rwanda at LDK Gymnasium. Admission is free. Kicukiro: The Final Lap Intore Entertainment presents Kigalians with a grand finale to close out the presidential campaigns for RPF’s candidate, Paul Kagame. “Kicukiro: The Final Lap will kick off after the RPF’s last campaign trail in Kicukiro, Gahanga, on Saturday, July 12. Entry is Rwf10,000, and attendees will enjoy music by Nicolas Peks, DJ Pyfo, and Joe the Drummer. There’s also a buy-one-get-one-free offer on wine, sparkling wine, cognac, and champagne. The show kicks off at 1 PM at Atelier du Vin. Mechanical Advantage Edition 3 The 3rd edition of Mechanical Advantage, Rwanda’s premier Electronic Dance Music party, is here. The event will feature both regional and local talent. From Uganda, attendees can expect performances by CRAZYMIND ORIGINAL, known for blending Hip Hop, Afro-house, Deep house, Techno, and traditional Acholi sounds. DONZILLA will offer a mix of traditional African music infused with bass and experimental elements. ITSMDNYT, a mixed media artist, will combine experimental sounds, dance music, and African tribal percussion. Representing Rwanda, LYYNDUH will mix Afro beats, dub, and disco, and MARIA, will blend flamenco, folk, and Afro influences to create electronic mixes. The show takes place at Mundi Center this Saturday, July 13. Early bird tickets are available for Rwf7,000, with tickets at the door priced at Rwf10,000. UEFA EURO 2024 Final Screening Catch the excitement live at BK Arena’s brand-new Sports Cafe with free entry and a buy-one-get-one-free offer. Doors open at 7 PM, to witness the clash between England and Spain as they vie for Europe’s top men’s national trophy. Taking place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany, on Sunday, July 14, Spain aims to secure a record fourth title, while England strives for their first-ever victory in the competition. Another live screening will take place at Centre Culturel Francophone at the same time. Lemonade at Lemon Kigali Looking for an exclusive fine nightlife hangout? Well, they say when life gives you lemons, you squeeze them and mix up some sweet lemonade! Join Lemon Kigali’s lemonade-themed party this Saturday, July 13 featuring music blended by K’Ru, Eric Habineza, and Diakite Bangaly, curated by Hottempah Collective and Pineapple Undertones. Entry is priced at Rwf10,000. Mozzarella Live Cooking Professional chef and restaurateur Steffi Metz is hosting a cooking class for those who cherish the Italian delicacy, mozzarella. Mozzarella is a type of fresh, soft cheese that originated in Italy, traditionally made from buffalo milk or cow’s milk. Known for its smooth texture, it is commonly used in Italian cuisine, especially in dishes like pizza, lasagna, and caprese salad. This live cooking session is priced at Rwf10,000 per person for tomato mozzarella and a drink. The class starts from 2 PM to 4 PM on Saturday, July 13, at Steffi Metz Gourmet Shop (KG 256 ST). Make the most of your weekend with these diverse and entertaining events tailored to every taste. To catch up on the latest events happening in Kigali, visit The New Times and follow our social media platforms for updates throughout the weekend.
