Renowned Rwandan gospel musician Israel Mbonyi, considered one of the top artists in the genre currently, has announced receiving an honorary award during his recent concert in Belgium. The recognition is a testament to his music's message transcending borders.

Mbonyi shared this in an interview with Inya Rwanda following his sold-out performance at the Dome Event Hall in Belgium, which attracted over 1,000 attendees. This marked his second concert tour in the European nation.

During this visit, Mbonyi also launched his latest album 'Nk'Umusirikare' (Like A Soldier) containing hit tracks like 'Nina Siri' to the Rwandan diaspora and other fans based in Belgium. At the high-profile event, the acclaimed artist behind songs such as 'Umukunzi' was honored with an award as the Most Popular East African Artist in Europe.

The award was presented to Mbonyi by the Mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, after he was invited to perform in Belgium by the event organizers Team Production. Speaking to media , Mbonyi expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, seeing it as a sign that his musical message has traveled far and wide, marking the start of an evangelical journey through song.

"This award means so much to me! It's a blessing, signifying that the message has reached distant places. For the Mayor himself to personally present this award is truly extraordinary," Mbonyi stated. He added, "I feel God is doing powerful works through what we are doing. I ask myself if I'm just starting to sing because the task ahead seems immense."

The artist revealed the concert was a memorable experience, as he witnessed people receiving salvation and God's hand at work. "I saw testimonies of people being healed through this concert. The city officials of Brussels even told me to feel at home here," Mbonyi recounted.

"I'm so grateful to God! We had a wonderful, joyous event where many people got saved, we prayed for the sick who were healed. I felt such joy being with my entire team," he continued. "The Mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, welcomed us warmly, presented me with a great award as the Most Popular East African Artist in Europe, and told me from now on, I should feel at home in Belgium. It was truly amazing. I thank God. But most importantly, souls were saved and God's presence was heavily felt with the huge crowd."

After Belgium, Israel Mbonyi is preparing for two major concerts in Uganda, Kenya, South Africa and other regions.