| Rwandese Alpha scoops Project Fame prize |
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 The Tusker dome broke into thunderous applause after Rwandese contestant Alpha was crowned the winner of Tusker Project Fame 3 on Sunday, October 11.It was a sweet double for Rwanda, being the first time to participate in the competition and taking the top prize. Alpha (whose name incidentally means First) took home the top prize of Kenya Shillings Five Million, a recording deal from South African record company Gallo, and a string of other goodies. He was mobbed by Rwandese fans led by his country’s ambassador, Mr Kayonga, and his dad, whom he described as “my hero”. Kenyan contestant and the academy’s funnyman, Ng’ang’a Lito, was placed second ahead of Uganda’s Caroline. Both won recording contracts from Soundafrica and other perks from sponsors. The winner was chosen by viewers across East Africa where the competition was beamed live on television every weekend. Organisers said 600,000 text messages (sms) were received for the final vote. Fifteen contestants started out 13 weeks ago when they won a place in the academy after auditions conducted throughout East Africa. They underwent training in musicianship and performance. Every week, the least impressive performers would be placed on probation by a panel of judges and one ejected. The previous winners of the competition were all female – Valerie from Kenya and Esther from Uganda — and bets were high that this time round a male contestant would scoop the award. Alpha never looked the favourite until his popular songs and humble demeanor began to wear on fans in the final stages. |