After attending the event, Ambassador Nduhungirehe shared a message on X (formerly Twitter) praising the artist and highlighting the exceptionally high standard of the concert.

He wrote: “BK Arena was packed, four hours of an outstanding concert, and a unique connection between Israel Mbonyi and the audience. Without a doubt, Israel Mbonyi is more than just a Gospel artist.”

These remarks reflect how the “Icyambu 4” concert went beyond entertainment, helping many people enter a deep atmosphere of worship, fellowship, and a unique celebration of Christmas.

The concert was attended by 10,300 people, filling BK Arena to capacity. Israel Mbonyi spent four hours on stage, performing his popular songs and creating an exceptional bond with the audience.

Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe’s message highlights how Israel Mbonyi continues to build a distinctive reputation, not only in worship music but also in producing high-quality concerts that bring people together in joy, peace, and gratitude, especially during the Christmas season.

This further reinforces the idea that “Icyambu” is not an ordinary concert, but rather a journey of worship that has become a tradition among Israel Mbonyi’s fans in Rwanda and beyond.
Israel Mbonyi previously told the media how his name initially troubled him, but later gained deep meaning in his life and ministry, eventually inspiring the song and concert concept “Icyambu.”

He explained: “God called me by my name and said, ‘Your name is Mbonyicyambu, and I will make you a harbor for all people.’ But I did not like that name at first. When I was in primary school, I even changed it and called myself ‘Mbonyimfura Eric’ because I disliked my name.”

He explained that understanding the meaning of his name later became the foundation of “Icyambu,” a space where people from all walks of life gather to rest spiritually, pray together, and experience life transformation.

Israel Mbonyi said he has received many testimonies from people whose lives were changed through his concerts.

“What touches my heart the most is when people share testimonies, telling me they accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, and others saying they were healed during my concerts.”

He added that these concerts have become a special moment for many, as families celebrate Christmas together earlier in the day, then attend his worship concert in the evening.

When asked about the time and effort required to organize such a concert, Israel Mbonyi said it takes immense effort but becomes manageable because of teamwork.

“No one can do this alone. It requires many people, it’s not just about me.”

He revealed that the idea of holding a concert on Christmas Day came from close friends, including Mushyoma Joseph ‘Boubou’ and David Bayingana, who encouraged him to take the step despite his initial fears.

“Those two people gave me the courage to do it. I am very grateful to them.”

Over the past 11 years, Mbonyi has been among the few worship artists who have significantly transformed the landscape of Gospel music in Rwanda and the region.

He became widely known through popular songs such as “Nina Siri,” “Ku Musaraba,” “Hari Impamvu,” “Intashyo,” “Icyambu,” and many others, which continue to be used in worship services and prayer gatherings.

He has released several successful albums, each marking a new stage in his career, whether in songwriting, music production, or the quality of music videos.

The “Icyambu” concert concept has become a defining symbol of Israel Mbonyi’s ministry, evolving into a space that brings together people from diverse backgrounds to worship and find spiritual comfort.

Israel Mbonyi has also performed in major concerts both within Rwanda and internationally, especially across Africa and beyond, further strengthening his reputation as a unique worship artist on the global stage.

Throughout his career, Mbonyi has deliberately avoided controversies related to his private life, choosing instead to let his music and message define his public image, rather than rumors or speculation.

Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe expressed that he was deeply moved by Israel Mbonyi’s “Icyambu 4” concert, which took place at BK Arena on Christmas night