It Took 13 Years for Lionel Sentore to Reunite with His Mother
After 13 long years apart, Lionel Sentore finally reunited with his mother, marking an emotional moment in the life of the celebrated Rwandan artist. Separated by different countries, the father-son bond endured the distance, proving how life can lead people along separate paths while keeping hearts connected.
On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Lionel, known for hits like “Uwangabiye”, arrived in Canada, the country where his mother resides, after years of anticipation.
Although Lionel primarily lives and works in Belgium, where he has built his musical career, he rarely speaks publicly about his personal journey to reconnect with his mother.
His trip to Canada was not just about performing; it also provided the perfect opportunity for a heartfelt reunion. Lionel shared videos on his Instagram, showing the emotional moment when he embraced his mother at the airport a moment filled with joy and longing.
Reliable sources tell InyaRwanda that Lionel last saw his mother in 2012 in Rwanda. At that time, Lionel flew to Belgium while his mother traveled to Canada, starting the 13-year separation.
The Canadian visit is part of Lionel’s international tour, which spans the U.S., Canada, Africa, and other countries. His first Canadian concert will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Edmonton, where he will perform alongside Ikirezi Deborah, the daughter of Massamba Intore, Daniel Ngarukiye, and other artists.
This concert provides a special occasion for Lionel to meet his North American fans while also reuniting with his mother making the event both professional and deeply personal.
Based in Belgium, Lionel has played a pivotal role in promoting Rwandan music internationally, blending traditional Rwandan sounds with his unique vocals. His latest album, ‘Uwangabiye’, showcases Rwandan culture and traditions while highlighting his mission to elevate traditional music on the global stage.
Lionel’s recent performance in Kigali on July 27, 2025, at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (Camp Kigali) marked the album launch. He performed alongside Ruti Joel, Jules Sentore, and the Itorero Ishyaka ry’Intore troupe.
The album features tracks such as “Umukobwa w’abeza”, “Teta”, “I.U.O.A.E”, “Uko bimeze” (feat. Mike Kayihura), “Urera” (feat. Elysee), “Uwangabiye”, “Hobe”, “Mukandori” (feat. Angela), “Ntaramanye”, “Urukundo” (feat. Boule Mpanya), “Yanyuzuye umutima”, and “Haguruka ugende”.
This reunion not only signifies a deeply personal milestone for Lionel but also underscores the enduring power of family, music, and cultural roots.
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