Dancehall Heads to Africa: Mavado and Shenseea to Open 2026 With Debut Performance in Rwanda

Dancehall heavyweights Mavado and Shenseea are set to kick off 2026 in the motherland, as the Jamaican stars head to Kigali, Rwanda, for a landmark performance on January 3. The show, confirmed by BK Arena on Monday, December 22, will mark the first time either artiste performs in the East African capital — a major cultural moment underscoring dancehall’s expanding global footprint and Africa’s growing appetite for Caribbean sound.

“Yeah, we are not slowing down. Shenseea is pulling up to BK Arena on January 3,” the venue announced via social media, officially locking in the concert after earlier reports of a December 28 date were denied. Organisers describe the event as a celebration of Black Atlantic musical exchange, blending dancehall’s raw energy with Africa’s vibrant live-music culture. Industry insiders say Kigali’s fast-rising entertainment scene made it a natural destination for the duo’s Rwandan debut.

The Rwanda appearance comes on the heels of a minor hurdle in Mavado’s social calendar, following the postponement of his highly anticipated Jamaican homecoming, Reggae Fest: The Return of Mavado. Originally slated for December 27 at Plantation Cove in St Ann, the show was delayed after Hurricane Melissa caused widespread devastation across the island. Promoter CJ Milan explained that the decision was rooted in responsibility and empathy. “This is a time for unity and recovery, not celebration,” she said, confirming that both she and the Gully Gad agreed Jamaica’s recovery must take priority. A new date will be announced when conditions improve, with all tickets already refunded.

Meanwhile, Shenseea’s global momentum has been matched by grassroots action at home. In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the international star returned to St Elizabeth, where she helped distribute over 5,000 relief parcels to families most affected by the storm. Funded in part by proceeds from a recent Dubai performance, the initiative addressed urgent needs while restoring hope in Jamaica’s agricultural heartland. “You’re not starting from zero. Your strength is already carrying you forward,” Shenseea told residents, reinforcing her commitment to community alongside career.

As Mavado and Shenseea prepare to light up Kigali, the moment feels bigger than a single concert. It signals dancehall’s continued global rise — rooted in resilience, responsibility and reach — with Africa now firmly part of the story.