Like a spark catching fire in a packed arena, Doja Cat’s performance in Kigali turned BK Arena into a sea of light, sound, and celebration, marking ahuge moment in her global career.
The global music star performed in Rwanda’s capital on the night of Tuesday, March 17, 2026, delivering her first-ever concert in Africa. It was a debut that drew strong attention, including the presence of Rwanda’s First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, who attended the high-energy show alongside renowned East African artist Khadja Nin.
The event was organized by Global Citizen as part of the Move Afrika 2026 series.
This was the third Move Afrika concert held in Rwanda. The country previously hosted Kendrick Lamar in 2024 and John Legend in 2025, reinforcing Kigali’s growing profile as a destination for major international performances.
Global Citizen founder and CEO Hugh Evans praised Rwanda’s leadership and partnership. Speaking at the event, he said there was “no better place” to host the concert than Kigali, thanking President Paul Kagame and the Rwanda Development Board for their collaboration.
The evening began with DJ Ira, who warmed up the crowd with a lively mix of local Rwandan hits and international chart-toppers. The atmosphere quickly built, with fans filling the arena in anticipation.
When Doja Cat finally stepped on stage, accompanied by a live band and backing vocalists, the energy shifted into full gear. She performed several of her well-known songs, including the global hit “Paint the Town Red,” prompting loud cheers from an audience that had been waiting for the moment.
At the end of the show, she thanked the crowd, describing her first performance in Africa as unforgettable and expressing appreciation for the warm reception.
Following the Kigali concert, Doja Cat was scheduled to continue her global tour, Tour Ma Vie World Tour, with a performance in South Africa at SunBet Arena on March 20, 2026.
The event also added to Rwanda’s growing reputation as a hub for international entertainment, reflecting the country’s continued investment in arts and culture on the global stage.
Since launching her career as an independent artist in 2014, Doja Cat has steadily risen to international prominence. Her major breakthrough came in 2019 with “Say So,” from the album Hot Pink, a hit that brought her Grammy recognition and worldwide attention.
She has since toured extensively across the United States, Europe, and Asia, building a large global fan base. Over the years, she has received numerous major awards, including Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and American Music Awards.
Known for her energetic performances and strong connection with audiences, Doja Cat’s Kigali debut added another chapter to a career that continues to expand — with an even wider global audience ahead.
