Dance has long been an important part of human culture, with every country and community having its own unique styles and traditions. However, despite its cultural and social significance, dancers continue to face several challenges in their profession.
These challenges include limited ownership of their creative work, difficulties in getting fair payment, and a general lack of recognition for their contribution to everyday cultural life.
Organizers of the Africa Dancer Awards believe that within the next 10 years, many of these long-standing challenges could become a thing of the past through consistent support and recognition.
The Africa Dancer Awards are a special platform dedicated to dancers and will be held in Rwanda in June. According to the organizers, the awards will feature 20 categories recognizing outstanding dancers from different African countries.
In an interview with InyaRwanda, Gatete Karim Clovis, the Director of Africa Dancer Awards and head of media within the organizing team, explained that the initiative was created to contribute to the growth and development of dance and dancers across Africa.
He said the industry has long faced many challenges, but also holds great potential. He emphasized that what has been missing is a platform where dancers can meet, celebrate achievements, and exchange ideas on how to further develop the profession, which plays a significant role in human life.
He added that Africa Dancer Awards will serve as a unique platform for dancers and others connected to the industry, helping bridge gaps between established and emerging talents.
Over the next 10 years, he believes the initiative will significantly contribute to professionalizing dance, strengthening networks among dancers, and helping them turn their talents into sustainable careers.
He further highlighted that the awards will also focus on discovering and supporting young talent, helping them develop their skills, gain knowledge related to their craft, and learn how to turn their abilities into income, in line with today’s evolving creative economy.
Preparations are currently at an advanced stage, with the Africa Dancer Awards 2026 scheduled to take place in Kigali in June 2026. The competition will feature 20 categories, including:
- Best Male Dancer
- Best Female Dancer
- Best Female Choreographer
- Best Male Choreographer
- Best Inspirational Dancer
- Best Dance Crew
- Best Emerging Dancer
- Best Youth Dancer
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- Viral Dance Challenge
- Best Dance Content Creator
- Best Influential Dancer
- Best Social Media Dancer
- Best Global African Dancer
- Best Junior Traditional Dance Group
- Best Traditional Dance Group
- Best Contemporary African Dancer
- Best Dancer in a Music Video
- Best Dance Collaboration
- Best Stage Performer
Rwanda is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for dance excellence, especially in traditional dance, where children are introduced to cultural performance from primary school through secondary school and university. There are also several independent dance groups that actively participate in both private and public cultural and entertainment events.
Beyond traditional styles, contemporary and international dance forms have also grown significantly in Rwanda. Several professional dancers and dance schools are now well established, training both children and adults. Dance is increasingly recognized not only as a profession but also as a means of promoting healthy living and creative expression.
Icyogere mu Bahungu is one of the well-established male dancers in traditional dance, and he is also a coach who trains and mentors other dancers
Sherrie Silver, an internationally recognized Rwandan dancer, is among the role models for many young artists. Here she was seen alongside the Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, Umutoni Sandrine
Among female dancers, Divine Uwa is a fast-rising name who has gained recognition in the industry and is currently preparing for a dance tour across Africa
Titi Brown was seen together with the Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, Umutoni Sandrine, as well as Minister Utumatwishima Abdallah
Jojo Breezy is one of the prominent names in Rwanda’s dance industry. Here, he was pictured alongside Ministers Sandrine and Abdallah
Rwanda to Host Africa Dancer Awards Celebrating Continental Talent