On Friday, December 6, art and music enthusiasts gathered at the University of Rwanda’s School of Architecture and Built Environment for the opening of ‘The Nostalgie 2000’ exhibition. Organized by the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy/Rwanda Art Museum, the exhibition examines a decade that played a key role in shaping modern Rwandan music culture. Curators Vivaldi Ngenzi and Nelson Niyakire highlighted the role of the 2000s in propelling Rwandan music to new heights. This era saw the introduction of studio recording equipment that empowered local talent to create, record, and share music, especially through radio platforms. ALSO READ: Women painters embrace shift to digital art The exhibition included a mini-documentary featuring voices from the era, memorabilia from notable performers, and art installations that highlight the period's creativity and progress. “The 2000s brought a shift in Rwanda’s music scene,” said Ngenzi who serves as the manager of the Rwanda Art Museum. “Artists, producers, and radio hosts contributed to a growing music culture, with names like KGB (Kigali Boys), Rafiki, Riderman, Miss Jojo, Mahoniboni, Mani Martin, Alexis Dusabe, Aime Uwimana, Richard Nick Ngendahayo, and The Sowers becoming familiar voices on the airwaves.” ALSO READ: Why Unveil Africa Fest was canceled mid-show During the month-long exhibition, which will run through January 6, 2025, the curator described an era when music captivated a generation eager for creativity and self-expression. Kigali's streets reflected this energy, transforming into vibrant spaces where buses featured international icons. The influence of music extended to fashion and lifestyle trends that defined the youth of that time. In the 2000s, Rwanda's music industry transformed with the rise of recording studios and local producers, highlighting emerging talent and professionalizing the field. This period not only redefined Rwanda's musical identity but also elevated the role of women in the arts. The likes of Miss Jojo, Liza Kamikazi, and Oda Paccy enriched the music scene and advanced women's recognition in a traditionally male-dominated industry by exploring themes of empowerment and societal change. ALSO READ: Minister Utumatwishima hails Imbuto Foundation for supporting arts Paying tribute to this period is not just about celebrating a bygone era but also about safeguarding its heritage for future generations. The musical, visual, and social archives of those years are vital for understanding the changes that shaped modern Rwanda. They reflect a time of reconstruction, emancipation, and youth finding their voice—a generation that turned to music as a means of expression and collective healing,” Ngenzi said. “These archives offer future generations a bridge to their cultural roots, shedding light on the struggles and dreams of those who came before them. They bring to life the voices that shaped a society in transition while reflecting values of freedom, independence, and creativity that defined the era. “Celebrating this decade is more than an act of remembrance; it is a call to preserve the archives that document it, ensuring they inspire and educate. By remembering this period, we keep its legacy alive, allowing it to resonate and fuel the imagination of a future Rwanda, he added. Nostalgie 2000 is more than a retrospective; it is a reflection on how that era continues to shape Rwanda’s music today. “We invite you to celebrate, listen to, and reflect on this story,” the curator said, posing a question to attendees: “What if the next Rwandan musical revolution begins with you?” A retro-style van, adorned with images of artists from this iconic era, is set to transport visitors to the exhibition along the renowned Remera-Nyamirambo route. Passengers can enjoy a nostalgic ride filled with music from the 2000s. Book your spot for Rwf10,000 at https://afroeventz.com/en/event/step-back-in-time-to-the-golden-age-of-rwandan-music.
