Grammy-winning artist Tems has canceled her scheduled concert in Kigali, citing concerns over Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo.
The singer, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, shared the news on X, explaining that she was unaware of the tensions between Rwanda and Congo when promoting the show at BK Arena, which was set for March 22.
“I recently announced my show in Rwanda without realizing the extent of the ongoing conflict between Rwanda and Congo,” Tems wrote. “I would never want to be insensitive to real-world issues, and I sincerely apologize if my actions seemed that way. My heart goes out to those affected.”
The decision follows heightened international scrutiny over Rwanda’s alleged support of the M23 armed group, which recently took control of Goma, a key city in DR Congo’s mineral-rich east. The UK government has since indicated it may reassess its aid to Rwanda in response to the crisis.
DR Congo has accused Rwanda of fueling unrest to exploit the region’s vast mineral resources. A July report by UN experts supported these claims, stating that Rwanda has deployed thousands of troops in eastern DR Congo and holds significant control over M23. However, Rwanda has consistently denied these allegations.
President Paul Kagame has not acknowledged direct military involvement but insists that lasting peace cannot be achieved until the DRC-based FDLR group—composed of former Hutu leaders linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide—is dismantled.
Tems’ decision to withdraw from the Kigali concert underscores the complex geopolitical tensions in the region and the role of global figures in raising awareness of humanitarian crises.
