Tems cancels Kigali concert over DR Congo-Rwanda tension

Tems has cancelled her ‘Born in the Wild’ tour stop in Kigali, Rwanda, originally scheduled for March 22, 2025. 

In a recent post on X, the Grammy-winning singer said the cancellation was due to the ongoing tension between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The 29-year-old music star apologised for promoting the show, adding that she was unaware of the conflict between both nations.

“So I recently promoted my show in Rwanda without realising 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,” she wrote.

“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.”

So I recently promoted my show in Rwanda without realising 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…

— TEMS (@temsbaby) January 30, 2025

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On Monday, the M23, the armed group that broke away from the DRC army more than 10 years ago, announced the capture of Goma, the capital of the North Kivu province.

It was alleged that Rwanda is backing the group.

The allegation comes as the three-year-old M23 rebellion in DRC’s mineral-rich east has intensified this month, with the rebels seizing control of more territory.

Tems rose to prominence in 2020 following her collaboration with Wizkid on the global hit song ‘Essence’.

She has received numerous awards and accolades for her talent.

In 2023, Tems earned her first Grammy for her contribution to ‘Wait For U’, the 2022 hit song by Future featuring Drake.

She released her debut album ‘Born in the Wild’ in 2024.