Rwanda’s most popular afro-beat artiste, Bruce Melodie, gospel music sensation Israel Mbonyi and Producer Element were awarded as winners of Isango and Muzika Awards 2022. The awarding ceremony was held at the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel in Kigali on Saturday evening, December 17. The Isango and Muzika Awards (IMA) organised by Radio Isango Star are among those who have made significant contributions to the development of Rwandan entertainment in the early years. It is given to artists and people in the entertainment industry who have surpassed others in the year due to the activities they have shown. This is the third time these awards have been given since their inception in 2020. This year, these awards were given in eight categories, including Best New Artist; Best Female Artist; Best Male Artist; Best Collabo; Best Video Director; Best Audio Producers; Best Gospel Artist of the Year. Since then artists including Bruce Melodie, Israel Mbonyi and Element have won it every year. Bruce Melodie was named artist of the year while Israel Mbonyi was named gospel artist of the year. Producer Element was named Recording Producer of the Year. Other winners Former best upcoming artist, Chris Eazy won The Best Song of the Year for his massive hit 'Inana', director Gad won The Best Video Director, Ariel Wayz won The Best Female Artist of the Year, 'Muzadukumbura' by Nel Ngabo ft Fireman won The Best Collabo of the Year and Bwiza won The Best Upcoming Artist of the Year. Isango na Muzika Awards powered by Isango Star presented prizes and gifts dedicated to Yvan Buravan's family for his unmatched contribution to Rwanda's music industry. The late singer's father said that was a special day. He said, “It's just happiness. They told me to come here for this event, it surprised me, I didn't expect it. As a representative of the family I’m extremely happy for this award, he said “I am grateful for the rewards you have given my son whom we raise but don't realize the impact of the child's actions in the society. He did his own thing, he didn't make much noise. Many people appreciate him and it makes us proud. Thank you for thinking of him even though he is not here but it shows that he has left us with many friends,” he added. On December 4, the family and friends of Yvan Buravan announced the 'YB Foundation,' an initiative responsible for rebuilding his legacy and campaigning to combat the rapid growth of cancer cases in Rwanda as well as taking the next generation in Rwanda’s music industry to unimaginable heights.
