Based: Rwanda
Cécile Kayirebwa is one of Rwanda’s most celebrated vocalists, composers and cultural ambassadors, widely recognised for preserving and sharing the musical heritage of Rwanda through her work. Born in Kigali in 1946, she began performing from a young age and was already involved in the Circle of Rwandan Song and Dance while still at school, with performances broadcast on Radio Rwanda.
Her music is deeply rooted in traditional Rwandan sound and storytelling. Over the course of her career, she has been known for researching, preserving and reinterpreting Rwandan musical traditions, with songs often reflecting themes of heritage, memory, family, peace and the beauty of her homeland. Her work has also featured traditional instruments such as the umuduri and ikembe, helping introduce Rwandan music to wider international audiences.
After leaving Rwanda for Belgium in the 1970s, Kayirebwa continued to build an international career through performance, recording and cultural work. She performed with groups including Inyange and Bula Sangoma, toured in Europe and America, and later released acclaimed projects including Amahoro and Ibihozo. She has also appeared at major events and festivals including WOMAD in the UK, the Robben Island Event in Cape Town, and other important cultural programmes linked to Rwandan heritage and remembrance.
With a voice that is both graceful and deeply expressive, Cécile Kayirebwa offers a live experience rooted in authenticity, cultural richness and timeless artistry, making her especially suited to festivals, concert programmes, cultural events and curated world-music line-ups.
