Cecile Kayirebwa

Biography

1946, Kigali, Rwanda. Since 1973, when the first Rwandan civil wars began, Kayirebwa has lived in Belgium. Brought up in the Catholic faith, she had a happy, peaceful childhood in sharp contrast to her nation’s later troubles. At school she was exposed to French singers such as Johnny Hallyday and France Gall, whose songs she would sing with her sister. As part of the school group, the Circle Of Rwandan Song And Dance, she was recorded by Rwandan radio in the 50s, though individuals were not identified as singing was not considered a suitable pursuit for young girls. After school she found work in the north east region of Buganza as a social worker, a period which also saw her explore the origins of Rwandan music. Eventually she began to write her own songs, praising figures such as the benevolent Rwandan Queen Rosali. Soon Kayirebwa would sing such praises to Rosali herself as her reputation grew. However, her happiness was shattered by the outbreak of war in...

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