Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and raised in mountainous Rwanda, gospel sensation Israel Mbonyi has become a beloved figure in Kenya and the East Africa region at large.
Rated among the most influential figures in the Rwandese gospel music scene, the 32-year-old songwriter and worship leader has garnered a fan base that extends beyond the borders of Rwanda.
The gospel sensation has announced his first concert in Nairobi, acknowledging that a significant portion of his fan base is from Kenya.
“Kenya holds a special part in my heart and I am super grateful for your unwavering support. You have been number one supporters of my ministry for the last three years. The time has come for us to worship together,” Mbonyi said while announcing his debut on the Africa Worship experience, that will take place on August 10, 2024.
Israel Mbonyi’s music career began with the release of his debut album “Number One” in 2014, featuring hit songs like “Nzaririmba” and “Baho.”
Following the success of his debut album, Mbonyi continued to release more music that resonated with his audience. His subsequent albums, such as “Intashyo” and “Mbwira,” further solidified his reputation as a leading gospel artist in Rwanda.
His music is characterized by inspirational lyrics, rich melodies, and a deep sense of spirituality. His unique blend of traditional gospel sounds with modern beats sets him apart as a true artist with a message.
In 2023, Israel Mbonyi expanded his musical repertoire and influence by entering Swahili music with “Nina Siri,” which became a significant hit across the East African community.
In March 2024, Mbonyi surpassed 1 million subscribers on YouTube, making him one of the top artists in Rwanda.
He was the talk of the town during the 2023 festive season after a sold-out concert in Kigali attended by fans from Rwanda and beyond.
A close look at his YouTube channel reveals the popularity of his Swahili songs, which have become big hits compared to those in Kinyarwanda.
Aside from his music career, Israel Mbonyi is known for his engaging live performances and his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. He regularly participates in concerts, church events, and gospel festivals, both in Rwanda and internationally.
His contributions to gospel music have not only enriched the genre but also played a significant role in uplifting and inspiring many individuals through his ministry.
Mbonyi holds a degree in Pharmacy obtained from India. In a 2022 interview on RTV, he mentioned that he is nearly completed with his studies for a master’s degree in Public Health, indicating it could be a career option if he wasn’t making music full-time.
During his leisure time, he enjoys watching and playing basketball, as well as reading both fictional and non-fictional books.
