‘Burundi Night’ thrills fans

The Burundian community and friends of Burundi in Kigali flocked to Sports View hotel on Friday night for what was a music gala dubbed ‘Burundi Night’.The well attended event was aimed at reuniting Burundians living in Rwanda and showcasing the Burundian culture to the entire Rwandan community and friends of Burundi in general.Gates were thrown open at 5p.m and guests were treated to amazing performances by Big Fariouz, a Burundian international artiste based in France, Alida Baranyizigiye, and Club Abamyabanga, a traditional Burundian dance group.The Burundian Diaspora in Rwanda (ADIBUR), the event organisers, did a great job as guests were kept on their feet dancing and singing along with the thrilling artistes.Club Abamyabanga were the curtain raisers and they cheered the audience with their amazing Burundian traditional dances and drums which had people jumping along.Alida was next on stage and she swept off the crowd with her amazing voice as she sang some of her popular songs, including ‘So Sweet’, ‘This Love’, ‘Let it Go’, ‘Liberty’, among others“I’m so excited, it’s my first time to perform for such a big audience and what is more surprising is that people knew my songs despite the fact that most of them are new,” she said.“People in Burundi think that Rwandans don’t listen to our music but with this response, that’s a clear sign that Rwandans love our music.” Alida added.At around 9:30 Big Fariouz arrived on stage clad in stripped shirt and a black west court with a white-and-black-checked shirt amid ululations from the audience. Big Fariouz, who received a standing ovation throughout his performance, performed hits like ‘Mambo Juya Mambo’, the good old ‘Munyana’, ‘Mademu’, Ndakumisinze, and his latest ‘Bajou’.The night was graced by several dignitaries including the Burundi ambassador to Rwanda, and the Minister for Sports and Culture, Protais Mitali.Mitali described the event as a unifying factor as it brought Rwandan and Burundian people together to know each other more and work as a family.Ornella Muhimpundu, in charge of communication at ADIBUR, was overwhelmed with the turn-up.“I didn’t expect such a turn-up. It was so amazing. I am so happy that our event was a success because it showcased our cultural journey and the oneness of the Burundian Diaspora in Rwanda,” she said. “Having such an audience coming to see our culture and enjoy with our people was really fantastic.”There was also an exhibition of Burundian cuisines and art while DJ Bissouso mesmerised the crowd with awesome mixes. The event ended midnight.

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‘Burundi Night’ thrills fans