Artist Mugisha Benjamin, popularly known as The Ben, continues to make history on the international stage after winning an award at the African Entertainment Awards, USA (AEAUSA) 2025. He emerged victorious in the category of Best Male Artist – East/South/North Africa.
In this category, The Ben beat several major African music stars, including Mouh Milano, Rophnan, Rayvanny, Kouz1, Likacase Qays, Marioo, Bien-Aimé Baraza, Master KG, and Dizzy Dros, further confirming his strong position among Africa’s top artists.
On the other hand, Bruce Melodie, who represented Rwanda in several categories, was not successful despite strong competition.
In the category of Social Media Influencer of the Year, Bruce Melodie did not win, as the award went to Uganda’s Ghetto Kids group.
Other nominees in this category included Realijfrosh, Maryan Abdiwali Ahmed, William Last KRM, Adeoluwa Prince Enioluwa, Boity Thulo, Althea Brown (Metemgee), Vera Sidika, and Mimie.
Similarly, Producer Element, who represented Rwanda in the Music Producer of the Year category, did not win, as the award was taken by DJ Maphorisa from South Africa.
Jamaican artist Shenseea, who is expected to perform in Kigali on January 3, 2026, also did not succeed in the International Artist of the Year category, which was won by Burna Boy.
In the Rising Star of the Year category, Zuba Ray from Kina Music, who was representing Rwanda, did not win, as the award went to Oriyano.
Among the highlights of the awards, the song “My Darling” by Chella, who recently performed in Kigali at The Silver Gala, won Song of the Year, beating other songs including “Tombe’” by Producer Element.
Bruce Melodie was also nominated in the major category of Artist of the Year, but the award was won by Josey.
In the Best Music Video category, “When She’s Around” by Bruce Melodie featuring Shaggy was beaten by “MMS” by Asake and Wizkid.
The African Entertainment Awards, USA (AEAUSA) are among the most respected international awards, celebrating talent, creativity, and the contribution of Africans and people from the Caribbean to the growth of entertainment, culture, and the economy.
The 2025 edition marked the 11th anniversary of these awards, which have continued to establish themselves as a major platform honoring artists, entrepreneurs, innovators, and individuals who contribute to social development worldwide.
