The highly anticipated Shining Stars Africa Awards will be held on March 7, 2026, at Olympic Hotel, where approximately 1,000 guests are expected to gather for an evening celebrating excellence in entertainment, fashion, leadership, and innovation across Africa and beyond.
Originally hosted in South Africa, the awards ceremony is being held in Rwanda for the first time, thanks to the country’s strong commitment to promoting tourism and cultural exchange, making Kigali an attractive and accessible destination for international guests and performers.
Organizers have confirmed that several artists from across the continent will perform at the event. These include TopCheri (Namibia), Prince Luv (Zambia), Bossgia (Tanzania), Shana Sierra (Uganda), Zyrah (Tanzania), Pheno Boy (DRC), and Noela (Uganda).
In addition to the awards presentation, the event will feature short panel discussions covering topics such as arts and culture, governance, business, technology, sports, and innovation.
Among the keynote speakers will be: Massamba Intore, a renowned cultural icon and musician; Hon. Marie Agnes Mukazibera, who served as a Member of Parliament for nearly 15 years, and Mugabo Julius, a young entrepreneur recognized for his success in digital and social media–driven business.
Their discussions aim to share practical insights and strategies to foster sustainable development across Africa, emphasizing the role of culture, leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Massamba Intore: He is an acclaimed singer-songwriter and the Lead Coach of the Rwanda National Ballet (Urukerereza). Recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025, his dedication to preserving and globalizing Rwandan culture through music and dance makes him a true 'Shining Star.'
Hon. Mukazibera Marie Agnes: With an esteemed 15-year career as a Member of Parliament, Hon. Mukazibera now serves as the 1st Vice President of the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY). Her leadership has been instrumental in advocating for women in sports and driving sustainable community development across Rwanda.
Mugabo Julius: He is a dynamic entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Interact Rwanda. Known for hosting the acclaimed Storytelling Night, Julius excels at the intersection of brand strategy and community engagement. He will bring fresh perspectives on digital innovation and the power of authentic storytelling to this year's awards.
Fashion Showcase
The ceremony will also include a fashion showcase organized by RIFI. Designers presenting their collections include Kulwa Mkwandule (Tanzania) of Mkwandule’son, Nunu of Nunu Fashion Luxury (Rwanda), Hilda Baleni (Zambia) of Skhusone’s Designs, and Mariro Umubyeyi Angèlique (Rwanda), founder of Masenge Agnes.
Nominees from Across Africa and Beyond
Rwandan nominees include Mutesi Jolly (Miss Rwanda 2016), Massamba Intore, Element, Alicia & Germaine, Bruce Melodie, Kigali Protocal, Jojo, Nadia Nany, Rocky Kimomo, Passy Sweet, Bianca Baby, MC Tino, and others.
From East Africa, nominees include Juma Jux, Priscy, Mbosso, Paula Kajala, Tanasha Donna, Jasinta Makwabe, Meena Ally, Zamaradi Mketema, Shali Ahmed, Bukuru Adnette, and Niyubahwe Kelly.
International nominees from across Africa and beyond include Fally Ipupa, Uche Montana, Lady Lava, Tianna, C4 Pedro, and Veronica Adane. Participants overall represent nearly 40 countries, including Haiti, the USA, and Trinidad & Tobago.
The awards ceremony will take place on March 7, 2026, at Olympic Hotel. Voting remains open until March 6, 2026, via festivoz.com (for Rwandans) and ssaward.com (internationally). The red carpet session will begin at 6:00 PM, followed by the official awards presentation at 7:00 PM.
The Shining Stars Africa Awards continues to position Kigali as a capable host of major international cultural and fashion events, reinforcing Rwanda’s growing reputation as a hub for African talent and global creative exchange.
Hon. Mukazibera Marie Agnès to Speak at Shining Stars Africa Awards
Massamba Intore, a renowned Rwandan musician, will serve as the guest speaker at the upcoming international event to be held in Rwanda
TopCheri from Namibia will be one of the performers at the event
Prince Luv from Zambia is expected in Kigali
Zyrah from Tanzania will entertain attendees at the Shining Stars Africa Awards
Shana Sierra from Uganda is expected to take the stage in Rwanda
Noela from Uganda is expected to perform in Kigali at the international event
Bossgia from Tanzania is set to entertain attendees at the Shining Stars Africa Awards
Rwandan RIFI Models are ready to shine on the runway at the Shining Stars Africa Awards