Tems Calls Off Rwanda Concert Amid Rising Tensions Between Rwanda and DR Congo

Tems has called off her scheduled concert in Rwanda due to escalating tensions between Rwanda and South Africa linked to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The announcement came via her X account on January 30, earning acclaim from her South African and DRC fans for her sensitivity to the regional crisis.

In her post, the Grammy-winning artist expressed regret over her initially planned performance in Kigali, stating her unawareness of the ongoing strife between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“So I recently promoted my show in Rwanda without realizing that there is ongoing conflict between Rwanda and Congo.

I never ever intend to be insensitive to real-world issues, and I sincerely apologize if this came across that way.

I simply had no idea this was going on. My heart goes out to those affected. Conflict is no joke and I truly hope and pray for peace in this time,” Tems wrote.

The canceled event was to be part of her global tour promoting her debut album ‘Born In The Wild,’ which has garnered significant success, including sold-out performances worldwide.

The tensions between Rwanda and South Africa have escalated due to Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 Rebel Group, which is attempting to overthrow the DRC government.

The situation worsened following the recent deaths of over a dozen South African soldiers in a peacekeeping mission in the DRC, a development that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted in a somber post on X.

Responding to the situation, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame made a sharp retort, branding the South African military involvement as unwelcome and emphasizing Rwanda’s readiness to confront South Africa in any capacity necessary.