Disc Jockeys, the music wizards who play and mix popular music, have long been predominantly men. But in recent years, Kigali has seen a significant increase in the number of female DJs breaking through and making their mark on the scene.
Rwanda has had a good time with popular DJs. You probably remember the legends such as DJ Boringo and DJ Bisoso on national TV and Radio. Then came the late DJ Miller who continues to live in the hearts of Rwandans, DJ Marnaud, DJ Pius, and DJ Toxxyk and their hit songs.
Until a few years ago, Kigali’s favorite DJs were all men. If you have been to a party or a club recently, however, you know this is changing. Female DJs are eating and leaving no crumbs. Thanks to these fighters armored with discs, another career was added to the long list of what women can do so well.
DJ Brianne
She needs no introduction. If you have not seen her mix and turn music in Kigali’s top clubs, you have seen her on social media speaking her mind, unfiltered. She is an award-winning DJ, social media influencer and philanthropist. She is the founder of La Perle Rwanda, a facility that helps street children be reintegrated back into their families. You will recognize her by her iconic tattoos and her single human-length dreadlocks.
Gateka Esther Brianne, known by her stage name, DJ Brianne, got her breakthrough in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown after her YouTube interviews went viral due to how humorous they were. Her journey has been upwards since then. She was awarded Best Influencer of the Year in 2021 and the best DJ in 2021, 2022, and 2023 at The Choice Awards by Isibo TV.
DJ Anitha Pendo
DJ Anitha Pendo is the embodiment of what a woman can do if they put their mind to it. She is a DJ, a radio presenter, an MC, and a mother of two sons. As a fan, I would add a comedian. Many of us would pay to see her do stand-up comedy.
If anyone understands Rwanda’s creative industry, is DJ Anitha. From the first seasons of Guma Guma Super Star in the 2010s to hosting today’s hottest shows, Anitha saw it all. She is surely a role model.
“Being responsible and loving what I do is what helped me become a good mother to my sons, a good DJ and MC to my fans, and a good presenter” Anita tells SENS.
DJ Sonia
She is known for her ability to move crowds, cool dance moves on stage that often trended on social media, and her attention-grabbing drips. Her real name is Sonia Kayitesi. She recently received a continental nomination in the 5th edition of Youth Excellence Awards Africa (YEA), which recognizes young people who are making a significant impact across all sectors of work in Ghana and Africa.
“Staying updated with the trends and keeping my head high no matter what have been my key principles in my career,” DJ Sonia said.
DJ Sonia performs on KC2 TV and was among the official DJs at the Nyega Nyega Concert a tour of shows that reach Nairobi, Kenya, and Kigali.
DJ Ira
Her real name is Ange Divine Iradukunda and was taught by DJ Bisoso, one of Rwanda’s legendary DJs. She was born in Burundi but moved to Kigali after high school to spin disc and Kigali received her with enthusiasm. She now is one of our favorite DJs on national TV.
“Once you know to ignore what others think of you and stay focused, things happen for you,” DJ Ira said.
DJ Cyusa
DJ Cyusa is among the fastest-growing DJs in Kigali. The 26-year-old began her DJing career in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates at the Fortune Pearl Hotel. She moved back to Rwanda in 2024 to continue her career in Kigali. Her real name is Angelique Cyusa Uwilingiyiman but she also goes by Miss Juicy Beats.
