The inclusion of Bull Dogg in the list of performers at the MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival 2025 is not a sudden development. Instead, it reflects a renewed understanding reached after previous negotiations between the rapper and the event organizers that had temporarily stalled.
During a press briefing held on *July 1, 2025, the management of *East African Promoters (EAP) explained that initial discussions with Bull Dogg had started before the announcement of the official lineup. However, the two sides initially failed to agree on certain points. Although the lineup was released without his name, talks resumed behind the scenes and continued until a final agreement was reached, which led to his inclusion.
*Mushyoma Joseph (Boubou), CEO of EAP, clarified that adding Bull Dogg to the festival was not a last-minute replacement of another artist or the result of pressure. Rather, it was the outcome of meaningful discussions and a shared vision. He stated: *“We had talked to Bull Dogg before. There were some points we hadn’t agreed on, but the discussions continued and eventually we reached a consensus. So, his inclusion wasn’t a surprise to us – it aligned with the process we had already started.”
He further explained that following the press conference held on June 16, 2025, negotiations with the rapper continued privately until both parties reached a mutual understanding and finalized the contractual terms.
This development highlights how MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival continues to pursue its goal of uniting artists from diverse genres and backgrounds. The festival is committed to the long-term growth of Rwandan music through collaboration, shared perspectives, and professional conduct.
*Bull Dogg, a renowned name in Rwanda’s *Hip Hop scene, will be sharing the stage with other top performers such as *Ariel Wayz, Riderman, Kivumbi King, Nel Ngabo, Juno Kizigenza, and **King James. The concerts will kick off in *Musanze District on Saturday, July 5, 2025.
Although this is the sixth edition of the festival, it marks the first time Bull Dogg is featured on its official lineup. It is also the third consecutive year that the festival is sponsored by MTN Rwanda, as part of its commitment to promoting youth talent through music.
Bull Dogg rose to fame with hit songs such as “Customer Care,” “Kaza Roho,” and “Icyumba cy’Amategeko” featuring Riderman, establishing himself as one of the key figures in Rwanda’s rap industry.
