Israel Mbonyi, renowned Rwandan gospel singer and songwriter, is set to captivate Ugandan audiences with his soul-stirring music. The show scheduled for 25th August 2024 will be happening at Mbarara University Inn Grounds. Born on May 20, 1992, in the Democratic Republic of Congo to devout Christian parents, Mbonyi’s musical journey began at a young age, nurtured by a passion that eventually became his career.
Despite dedicating most of his life to music, Mbonyi holds a degree in Pharmacy earned in India. In a 2022 interview on RTV, he revealed his pursuit of a master’s degree in Public Health, showcasing his commitment to education alongside his musical endeavors.
Israel Mbonyi’s musical roots trace back to his childhood in Musanze, Ruhangeri City, Rwanda, where he received training from a local music teacher. As the sole graduate among 30 students, he mastered the guitar, laying the foundation for his future in the industry.
Marking his debut in 2014, Mbonyi released the album “Number One” with tracks like ‘Yankuyeho Urubanza,’ ‘Ku Migezi,’ ‘Nzibyo Nibwira,’ ‘Ku Musaraba,’ ‘Ndanyuzwe,’ ‘Hari Impamvu,’ and ‘Agasambi.’ Initially singing in Kinyarwanda, he transitioned to Swahili in 2023 with the release of ‘Nina Siri,’ a move that garnered him widespread acclaim in Tanzania and Kenya, mistakenly identifying him as a Tanzanian artist.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka expressed admiration, stating, “I’ve been watching this young man called Israel Mbonyi; he’s Rwandese but he sings like a Tanzanian. He’s very poetic when he sings ‘Nina siri…’ then ‘jasiri…'”
Mbonyi’s impact on the gospel music scene has earned him accolades, including Groove Awards Rwanda titles for ‘Male Artiste of the Year’ and ‘Songwriter of the Year’ in 2017. Additionally, he received nominations at the 2020 African Entertainment Awards USA and clinched the Male Artiste of the Year and Best Gospel Artiste of 2023 at Rwanda’s Isango Na Muzika Awards.
Now, Uganda eagerly awaits the live performance of Israel Mbonyi, promising an unforgettable experience for fans and newcomers alike.
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