Famous People From Rwanda

Famous People From Rwanda

Although today Rwanda is synonymous with genocide and civil war, this was not the case always. There have been people from Rwanda who became famous for many things. Here is a list of famous people from Rwanda who have attained international fame and acclaim.

Famous People from Rwanda:

King Kigeri IV: King Kigeri IV was one of the most renowned rulers of the pre-colonial Rwanda kingdom who ruled the country from 1853 to 1895. Also named Rwabugiri, Kigeri IV strived to raise the authority of his throne and overcame the conventional restraints. His government diffused the political powers of semi-autonomous Hutu and Tutsi lineages and imposed strict rules, often taking away their lands.

Cecile Kayirebwa: Cecile Kayirebwa was popular for her musical talent globally. She took a keen interest in singing during her teenage years. At the age of 15, she started singing at the Rwanda song and dance circle. She loved to know more about the origins of Rwandan music. Her songs had a deft touch or various cultures of Rwanda. Most of her compositions featured the sounds of traditional instruments such umuduri and ikembe. Her most acclaimed album was ‘Ubumanzi’ in the 1990s.

Immaculee Ilibigiza: Perhaps one of the world’s foremost speakers on faith, peace and forgiveness, Immaculee is popular for her motivational speaking attributes. She is a Rwandan author and motivational speaker.  She featured in The New York Times, CNN and The Aljazeera Network. She has also been honored with numerous humanitarian awards and several doctorate degrees. 

In 2006, Immaculee’s book, ‘Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust’ has sold over 250,000 copies worldwide. Her book tells about the 1994 Rwandan genocide and how her life was radically transformed during the Rwandan holocaust. A documentary film has also been produced on her book. She has also been signed by MPower Pictures. The production house plans to produce a movie based on her novel.