The nominees for the 2025 Music Video Africa Awards (MVAA) were announced on July 16, 2025. Online voting kicked off on August 10, 2025, and runs until September 2, 2025. Winners will be revealed during the awards ceremony on September 5, 2025.
For the first time, Rwanda is represented by an impressive lineup of celebrities across multiple categories. Talented artists, filmmakers, video directors, and models are shining in these prestigious awards. Here are the highlights:
Massamba Intore is nominated for the "Best MVAA Legend Icon Award of the Year 2025," celebrating seasoned musicians who carry cultural heritage forward. The Ben (Mugisha Benjamin), Rwanda's celebrated music artist, is competing for the "Best MVAA Artist of the Year 2025."
Alliah Cool is contending for the "Best MVAA Humanitarian of the Year 2025," honoring impactful contributions to community welfare. Gospel sensation Israel Mbonyi is nominated for the "Best MVAA Gospel Artist of the Year 2025." Renowned video director Director Gad vies for the "Best MVAA Music Director of the Year 2025."
Element Eleeh, a key figure in Rwandan music production, proudly represents the nation in the "Best MVAA Music Producer of the Year 2025" nomination.
Gratien Niyitegeka, aka ‘Papa Sava,’ one of Rwanda's beloved comedians, is competing for the "Best MVAA Content Creator of the Year 2025."
Dr. Nsabi, a trailblazer in Rwandan cinema, is nominated for "Best MVAA Actor of the Year 2025," while Nadia, famed for her role as ‘Muganga’ in “Umuturanyi,” pursues recognition in the "Best MVAA Breakout Actress of the Year 2025" category. Rising star Aime Gad joins her with a nomination for "Best MVAA Breakout Actor of the Year 2025."
Ruti Joel is among the nominees for "Best MVAA Indigenous Artist of the Year 2025." Ugeziwe Ernesto, a talented artist based in the U.S., is up for the "Best MVAA Young Male Achiever of the Year 2025."
Laura Sarah, celebrated for winning Rwanda Global Diversity 2025, is a nominee for "Best MVAA Model of the Year 2025." Meanwhile, Igihozo Nshuti is recognized in the "Best MVAA Content Creator of the Year 2025" category.
African and global stars such as Fally Ipupa (DR Congo), Wizkid (Nigeria), Juma Jux (Tanzania), Frank Ro (Nigeria), and Meddy Saleh (Rwanda) bring more brilliance to the MVAA 2025 nominations.
Influencers like Kamatari Sandra, dancer Divine Uwa, and actress Jojo Wajoxy add glamor to the event. Jojo is nominated for "Best MVAA Actress of the Year 2025."
The Music Video Africa Awards (MVAA) is Africa’s annual spotlight on excellence in entertainment, honoring artists, filmmakers, music video directors, and influencers who define quality and innovation. This platform also fosters international collaboration and amplifies African values through music, cinema, and social media.
Rwanda’s extensive representation at MVAA 2025 is a testament to the nation’s rising competitiveness in entertainment, commanding attention at both continental and global scales.
Cast your votes at the official MVAA website: https://mvaa.yaaawards.com/votenow from August 10, 2025, until September 2, 2025.
The Ben is competing for "Best MVAA Artist of the Year 2025," an award honoring exceptional musical talent that captivates fans regionally and internationally. His artistry shines through this distinguished nomination. 
Alliah Cool’s nomination for "Best MVAA Humanitarian of the Year 2025" celebrates her significant contributions to community welfare and humanitarian causes.
Massamba Intore, famed for preserving musical and cultural heritage, is nominated for "Best MVAA Legend Icon Award of the Year 2025" — a category for artists who elevate national pride and legacy globally. 
Israel Mbonyi’s nomination for "Best MVAA Gospel Artist of the Year 2025 " celebrates artists who inspire through spiritually uplifting gospel music.
Element Eleeh competes in "Best MVAA Music Producer of the Year 2025," highlighting his remarkable innovation in music production.
Dr. Nsabi is a nominee for "Best MVAA Actor of the Year 2025," recognizing his impactful performances that captivate viewers.
Wizkid vies for "Best MVAA Artist of the Year 2025," a category celebrating African artists who push boundaries while captivating audiences worldwide.