Salax Awards, launched in 2008, had celebrated and honored outstanding artists across various entertainment sectors, helping to elevate many of Rwanda’s top talents. In 2014, the awards faced challenges and were suspended, and although there were plans to revive them in 2016, they never materialized.
In recent years, the responsibility of organizing the awards was handed over from Ikirezi Group to AHUPA Digital Services Limited for a period of five years. The last edition of the awards was held in 2019, when artist Bruce Melodie won three awards out of ten categories.
In an Exclusive interview with InyaRwanda Tv, Ally Soudy emphasized that the absence of Salax Awards is a significant loss for the Rwandan music industry, as the awards were often regarded as the “Rwandan Grammys.”
He said, “The absence of Salax Awards is a huge loss for Rwandan music, and many people agree. For instance, at The Ben’s recent concert, when celebrating his achievements, Salax Awards were mentioned. It was seen as the Grammy Awards of Rwanda. Losing awards like this is losing history and recognition, because they were the first of their kind in the country. It’s a great loss.”
Ally Soudy also explained why the awards stopped, noting that some artists had misunderstood their purpose, treating the awards as a source of money rather than a recognition of excellence.
He explained, “Rwandan artists often don’t understand the true value of awards. Some think it’s about money. That’s a big mistake. Awards are about honor and recognition. Salax Awards were meant to open doors for artists, provide opportunities, and celebrate talent, and they achieved that.”
He added, “Part of the reason the awards were halted is because some artists treated them as a financial gain, even withdrawing from participation. I didn’t like that, because artists should support the awards to strengthen them, which in turn attracts sponsors.”
Ally Soudy affirmed that when he has the resources and time, he is committed to reviving the awards. He had been involved in establishing the initiative alongside Mike Karangwa and understands the awards’ historical significance in Rwandan music.
He said, “Thinking about it pains me, but even if I can’t act immediately, in my heart, as long as I am alive, have the resources and time, I will work to bring back the awards. This is a project I started with my colleague Mike Karangwa, and I will fight to revive it.”
Salax Awards have historically recognized and celebrated artists such as Bruce Melodie, Knowless, and Meddy, becoming a landmark in Rwandan music. Reviving them could once again provide a platform for artists to showcase their talent and be acknowledged for their achievements.
As Ally Soudy prepares to lead efforts to restore Salax Awards, Rwandan artists and music fans are encouraged to respect and support this initiative that has historically honored and elevated countless talents in the country.
Ally Soudy has announced plans to revive the Salax Awards, the Rwanda's prestigious music awards
WATCH THE INTERVIEW WITH ALLY SOUDI