Israel Mbonyi wants to be "one of ours" after winning over Kenyan fans

Rwandan gospel singer Israel Mbonyi left a lasting impression during his recent visit to Kenya, where he performed at the Africa Worship Experience concert on Saturday, 10 August 2024, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

The concert drew a large crowd and sparked a wave of admiration from fans and public figures alike.

Mumias East Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Salasya was among those deeply moved by Mbonyi’s performance.

After attending the concert, Salasya vowed to bring the gospel star to Kakamega's Bukhungu Stadium for a similar worship experience.

Sharing a video of himself dancing to Mbonyi’s hit song Nina Siri, Salasya captioned on Instagram, "I will bring him to Bukhungu Stadium for worship experience moments. I will be visiting him in Kigali, Rwanda."

He added, "I have also tapped into the grace of being a worshipper. What a wonderful worship experience. He is spiritual and worships in spirit."

Fans on social media echoed Salasya's sentiments. An X user, Sarah Mwangi, praised Mbonyi’s live performance, stating, "Israel Mbonyi Nina Siri live—that man is who he thinks he is. Beautiful music, vocals so good, guitar skills, and a good performer. He gave us a great performance, and what you see on YouTube is what you get live. May he keep dropping more gems."

??❤️? pic.twitter.com/qKlZ9D6JoN

— Israel Mbonyi (@IsraeMbonyi) August 11, 2024

Naisula Lesuuda, OGW, shared her joy on social media, posting photos from the concert. "At Israel Mbonyi’s concert with family and friends. Feeling blessed. My heart is full of gratitude," she wrote.

Former Cabinet Secretary Eugene L. Wamalwa also expressed his appreciation for the concert, saying, "Great night of praise and worship at Ulinzi Sports Complex with Rwandan gospel singer Israel Mbonyi."

Former Senator Isaac Mwaura was thrilled to meet Mbonyi, whom he described as "a great soul that has inspired many through true worship of the one and almighty GOD."

Mwaura added, "Israel Mbonyi, you are simply the best! Your songs, from the all-too-famous Nina Siri, Nitaamini, Malengo, the new hit Heri, and many more, bless so many people!"

Mbonyi, clearly moved by the warm reception, posted a series of photos and videos from the concert on his social media. In one video, he wrote, "Oh Kenya ??❤️?, your love is so authentic. How can I apply to be one of yours?. I loved you guys." His comment sparked playful reactions from fans, with many suggesting he marry a Kenyan to acquire citizenship, while others assured him he was already "one of ours."

Kenya ??❤️?, How can I be one of yours ? pic.twitter.com/Ybj9lDfcuD

— Israel Mbonyi (@IsraeMbonyi) August 11, 2024

The concert attendees were full of praise for Mbonyi's performance. On Instagram, Dolly Ndavi shared how Mbonyi’s music had personally impacted her during a difficult time. "Welcome again and again, servant of God. Your songs are a blessing. When my dad was sick and didn't get well, that song gave me hope to keep trusting. Hata vile hakupona, huo wimbo ulinifanya nizidi kuamini," she wrote.

Another fan, Anne Nalo, expressed her admiration for Mbonyi, saying, "@israelmbonyi, you have no idea the impact that your ministry is having. I sang through all your songs yesterday, and I am in awe of what God is doing with your life. Keep preaching Christ with your super cool ? self. I listen to your songs and just cry in prayer to my God. Much love, brother ??."

Judy Chege, another attendee, wrote, "You gave us an unforgettable worship experience! Be blessed always."

The Africa Worship Experience concert, which ran from 12 pm to 8 pm, saw tickets priced at Sh20,000 for first-class VVIP, Sh12,000 for VVIP, Sh8,000 for VIP, and Sh3,000 for regular.

Mbonyi shared the stage with several Kenyan gospel artists, including Pitson, Karura Voices, Timeless Noel, Destiny Voices, K-Krew Worship, Adonage Band, and DJ Gee Gee.

Mbonyi’s visit to Kenya wasn’t limited to the concert. On Friday, 9 August 2024, he made a special appearance at the Churchill Show live recording at Carnivore Grounds, where he gave a brief but memorable performance.