Previously held only in South Africa, the Shining Stars Africa Awards will be hosted in Rwanda on March 7, 2026, following recognition of Rwanda’s growing excellence in service-based businesses and its ability to host large-scale international events.
The international awards ceremony will bring together participants from across Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Kenya, Burundi, DRC, Gambia, Ethiopia, and more.
Other notable nominees include Fally Ipupa from the DRC, a music sensation; Uche Montana, a renowned Nigerian actor; and Prime Minister Ilídio Vieira Té.
International nominees from outside Africa are also expected, including Lava from Trinidad & Tobago, known for the global hit Ring Finger, which has received recognition from stars like Cardi B.
Rwandan nominees include Mutesi Jolly, Oswald Mutuyeyezu of Radio & TV10, actress Laura Sarah Uwase, musician Noopja, Alicia and Germaine in Gospel music, Nelly Misago Wilson - Founder of ZACU Entertainment, Nadia Nana, among others.
Organizers revealed that the awards ceremony will host around 1,000 attendees, including guests from across the African continent.
Over 40 award categories are up for grabs, covering sports, entertainment, business, governance, technology, and more. Voting opens on February 9, 2026, and will be conducted digitally. The awards ceremony will take place in Kigali, Rwanda, in March 2026.
The Shining Stars Africa Awards will be hosted in Rwanda on March 7, 2026