The event, organized by the international advocacy organization Global Citizen, will take place at Kigali’s BK Arena before moving to Lagos, Nigeria, on February 25, 2025.

Move Afrika, a pioneering music touring circuit by Global Citizen, aims to drive economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurship across Africa through world-class entertainment events. The 2025 tour will expand from East to West Africa, with Rwanda and Nigeria serving as the host countries.

The project also aims to set a new gold standard for entertainment events, boosting demand for international and regional artists to tour Africa.

John Legend, an EGOT-winning artist and longtime Global Citizen ambassador, expressed his excitement about headlining the second edition of the event.

“I’m honoured and excited to perform in Kigali and Lagos as part of the Move Afrika tour – an initiative that not only brings unforgettable shows but also creates entrepreneurship and job opportunities, empowering young people to engage with Africa’s growing music and creative industries,” said John Legend.

“Africa has always been a global cultural powerhouse, and it’s an honour to be part of the future of live music on the continent.”

John Legend is known for a collection of hits that span various genres, blending soul, R&B, pop, and more. His most iconic song, "All of Me," released in 2013, became a global wedding anthem. The romantic ballad, dedicated to his wife, Chrissy Teigen, topped charts worldwide and solidified his place in pop culture.

John Legend is known for a collection of hits that span various genres, blending soul, R&B, pop, and more.

Another early hit, "Ordinary People" from his debut album Get Lifted (released in 2005), remains one of his most beloved tracks, showcasing his soulful sound and emotional depth.

Move Afrika Impact

Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Global Citizen, emphasized the initiative’s impact:

“Our goal is to inspire Africa’s dynamic young population to participate in the live music and creative industries, while building lasting infrastructure for the continent’s international touring circuit,” said Evans.

The first Move Afrika event in Rwanda was held in December 2023 at the BK Arena and was headlined by Pulitzer Prize and Grammy-winner Kendrick Lamar.

The show, one of the most successful live music events in Rwanda’s history, employed over 1,000 Rwandans and engaged 75% local crew and production staff. It also featured performances by artists such as Zuchu, Bruce Melodie, DJ TOXXYK, Sherrie Silver, Ariel Wayz, Kivumbi King, and Bruce The 1st.

Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), celebrated Move Afrika’s return, saying, “Global Citizen’s return to Rwanda in February 2025 underscores our commitment to showcasing Africa’s creative talent and leveraging the global entertainment industry to address the continent’s development priorities. Our goal is to position Rwanda as an entertainment hub that benefits all African countries, creating youth-focused employment and income opportunities.”

Move Afrika is presented in partnership with pgLang and aims to support sustainable development and economic growth, with a particular focus on strengthening Africa’s health systems.

In collaboration with campaign partners, Global Citizen will advocate for increased domestic health financing, enhanced primary care, and greater investments in health resilience.

The 2025 edition of Move Afrika builds on Global Citizen’s previous events in Africa, including the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 in Johannesburg (2018), Global Citizen Live: Lagos (2021), and Global Citizen Festival: Accra (2022).

American superstar John Legend during a past performance at Royal Albert Hall show.