Artist Jules Sentore revisited his heartfelt promise on Monday night, September 29, 2025, during a ceremony celebrating the life of Mukarugagi Ancilla. In his emotional tribute, Jules Sentore shared the cherished memories and strong connection he had with his late grandmother, who played an instrumental role in his early years.
He reflected, "I believe we, as her grandchildren, spent more time with her and understood her better than her own children. My mother wasn’t always supportive of her raising us, but my grandmother found ways to bring us home under her care, and that’s where we grew up. Mama left us with profound memories—she was a parent who never withheld anything and treated us with utmost equality."
Sentore revealed that, when he started his music journey, he made sure to share the news with his grandmother. Every time he prepared for a concert, he informed her, though she often had a special request tied to his performances.
He reminisced, "I remember the beginning of my singing career. Each time I prepared for an album launch or performance, I’d tell her, ‘I’m organizing this concert for my album or my songs.’ Her response was always the same: ‘Are you performing one of Sentore's songs so I can attend? If not, I won’t come.’"
The grandmother’s unwavering insistence became a guiding principle for Jules. She wanted his concerts to always feature songs written by Sentore Athanase—his grandfather, who was a legendary musician known for establishing renowned groups like "Indashyikirwa" and "Ibihangange" and penning numerous timeless tracks.
This promise shaped Jules’ musical journey, inspiring him to ensure that every album he produced included at least one track created by his grandfather, as a way of honoring his grandmother and her wishes.
He stated, "Since I began creating albums, I vowed that each would feature a song composed by Sentore Athanase. So far, I’ve released three albums, and every one of them contains his work. This is a promise that deeply resonates with me—it’s about honoring his legacy and strengthening our family’s bond."
Jules Sentore’s latest album, “Umudende,” his third studio release, also includes a song written by Sentore Athanase. This album reflects his commitment to preserving his family’s heritage and music, demonstrating that his artistry goes beyond a profession—it’s a meaningful tribute to his lineage.
He affirmed, "Continuing to sing my grandfather’s songs allows me to keep his legacy alive and fulfills the solemn vow I made to my beloved grandmother."
Mukarugagi Ancilla, born on January 1, 1942, in Mayaga, now located in Nyanza District in southern Rwanda, hailed from the family of Rwabihama Faustin and Kangabe Therese. Her life epitomized love and selflessness.
She married Sentore Athanase, and together they had seven children. By the time of her passing, she had raised 20 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, dedicating her life to nurturing others with unconditional love and immense generosity.
To those who knew her, Mukarugagi Ancilla was simply "a mother to all," admired for her heartfelt compassion and noble character.
Jules Sentore pictured alongside Lionel Sentore, sharing their memories of Mukarugagi Ancilla, their late grandmother