Israel Mbonyi’s New Year Concert in Rubavu Relocated to Umuganda Stadium
Gospel artist Israel Mbonyi has confirmed a change of venue for his upcoming “Icyambu” New Year concert scheduled for January 1, 2026, in Rubavu District, with the event now set to take place at Umuganda Stadium.
The concert was initially expected to be held at Nengo Grounds, following earlier planning challenges related to the availability of Rubavu Stadium. At the time, local authorities had not granted access to the main stadium, prompting organizers to seek alternative options.
According to information obtained by this publication, Mbonyi’s team later applied to use Umuganda Stadium, but the request was temporarily put on hold due to the possibility that the venue might host the Super Cup football match. Once the match schedule was finalized and confirmed not to conflict with the concert date, permission was granted for Mbonyi to use the stadium on New Year’s Day.
The Rubavu show comes shortly after Mbonyi’s major Christmas concert at BK Arena, scheduled for December 25, 2025, where he will also stage the fourth edition of the “Icyambu” concert series an event that has grown into one of Rwanda’s most anticipated gospel music experiences.
Ticket prices for the Rubavu concert have been structured to remain accessible, with general admission at Rwf 2,000, VIP at Rwf 5,000, VVIP at Rwf 10,000, and Rwf 150,000 for a VIP table seating eight guests.
Meanwhile, tickets for the BK Arena concert range from Rwf 10,000 to Rwf 50,000, depending on seating category.
The Rubavu event is expected to attract worshippers and music lovers from across the Western Province, offering them a unique opportunity to usher in the new year through praise and worship led by one of Rwanda’s most influential gospel voices.



