Joshua Baraka, a popular artist from Uganda, arrived in Kigali on August 15, 2025, for a major performance at Kigali Universe. The Kampala-born musician used this trip as an opportunity to connect and hold discussions with prominent Rwandan artists including Bruce Melodie, Mike Kayihura, and Element.
Two days after his arrival, Baraka entered the studio with Bruce Melodie, and the two recorded their first song together—an update confirmed by Tuyitakire Joshua, the Head of Communications at 1:55 AM, the music company managing Baraka’s projects. This session followed an earlier meeting on Friday, during which they did not manage to record.
This marked Baraka’s second visit to Rwanda, following an initial trip aimed at promoting his music. This time, however, he returned as a rising star on the international scene, largely due to the success of his breakout song “Nana,” which opened doors for him to travel to Europe and collaborate with major artists such as Joeboy and King Promise.
Speaking at Kigali International Airport, Baraka shared that beyond performing for Rwandan fans, he had scheduled meetings with renowned local musicians to explore potential collaborations. That plan has now taken shape with the completion of a joint song with Bruce Melodie.
Baraka gained public attention after releasing his debut EP Baby Steps in 2021, followed by Belinda in 2022. After the success of “Nana,” he signed with Moves Recordings, a UK-based Afrobeats label, and has since been preparing for international expansion. His next EP is expected to be released in December 2025.
