Inganji’s vision is to help Christian artists develop by empowering and equipping them to use their art and creativity to serve and build the body of Christ, share the Gospel message and, thereby, transform society. 

To achieve this, Inganji has developed a network of artists to foster relationships and collaboration, and help pool resources. They particularly focus on the spheres of youth and churches. Their outreach includes concerts, competitions and training. 

A key date on the calendar is the annual Inganji Festival. It gathers artists of all descriptions, from music to visual art, to filmmakers and more! Each year the festival attracts more attention, serving to spread the message of Inganji’s work across the nation. 

Delegates enjoy a variety of events – worship nights, workshops and exhibitions – culminating in the Inganji Gospel Awards night. It encourages people to stretch themselves in their chosen medium and try new things. The winners benefit from prizes which will equip them to grow in their creative expression.

This year, the festival took place in the economic capital, Bujumbura. We heard from some of the award winners.

Amos, is a Christian musician, who participated in the Inganji Worship Academy (IWA). “When I arrived at IWA, I was juggling multiple musical disciplines and didn’t know which to devote my time to. By the time I left, I had fresh focus and clarity. 

“Winning this competition motivates me to continue studying music and improving. The IWA helped me understand how my talents can contribute to Christ’s kingdom, and how just as he freely gave me this talent, I can freely pursue and share it with joy. 

“I would encourage others like me to study and develop their own talents, to make best use of them.”

Joshua is a Christian painter. When he was younger, he knew he had some talent, but wasn’t sure how to use it. “Injanji gave me a way to use my artistic talents for good. I entered the competition because I wanted to share what I had learned. I learned loads from the process of this competition. The prize money will enable me to purchase more tools and materials which are usually too expensive. I hope that more Christian artists like me will benefit from IWA.”

Pulcherine is an actress, known for her theatre, film and TV work in Burundi, who received a lifetime achievement award. As a Christian established in the Burundian media industry, she is a role model for many younger creatives. “I’m so happy to have been chosen,” she remarked, “I never thought that what I was doing would go so far as to leave a mark on the hearts of viewers. There is an expression that says ‘an artist never dies, because when you pass on, your artistic works remain.’ I encourage all artistic servants of God to be led by the Holy Spirit – because God is the Supreme Artist!”

Between now and next year’s festival, Inganji will continue running the IWA each term, as well as outreach in churches, prisons and with young people.