Juno Kizigenza explains on-stage kiss with Ariel Wayz

Rwandan singer and songwriter Juno Kizigenza has clarified the reason behind his on-stage kiss with fellow artist Ariel Wayz during Davido’s “5IVE” album launch concert, stating it was an expression of excitement rather than a gesture tied to their past relationship.

The concert, sponsored by SKOL through its Skol Malt brand, took place at BK Arena on Friday, December 5, 2025.

Upon arriving on stage, Juno told fans he would begin 2026 with a new album, the follow-up to his previous project Yaraje. He performed several of his popular tracks including “Jaja,” “Birenze,” “Shenge,” “Igitangaza,” “Yaraje,” and “Kurura.”

Mid-performance, Juno invited Ariel Wayz to join him for their collaborative song “Away,” prompting loud cheers from the crowd familiar with the history of their former relationship. The pair performed the track together before sharing a brief kiss, a moment that drew strong reactions and reignited public memories of their split in 2021.

Speaking to InyaRwanda.com after the show, Juno said the kiss had no deeper meaning. “It means I was happy, nothing more. We have to give fans a show,” he said, adding that the gesture was purely driven by the energy of the moment and the warm reception from fans inside BK Arena.

Ariel Wayz has continued to build a notable presence in Rwandan music in recent years, while her past collaboration with Juno, especially the song “Away,” remains meaningful to many fans despite their separation in late 2021.

The unexpected on-stage moment left attendees speculating about whether it signaled renewed emotions or simply performance showmanship. Beyond the kiss, Davido’s concert recorded high attendance, strong performances and memorable highlights, marking December 5, 2025, as a significant night for Rwanda’s music scene.