Bikem wa Yesu is a rising Gospel artist, combining his love for worship music with work in media. Growing up in the Bethanie Choir in Gihundwe, he has since become an independent artist and choir trainer.
Recently in the spotlight due to the passing of "Gogo," Bikem wa Yesu has released a poignant song titled "Iwacu Si Ino" ("Our Home is Not Here"). He created this moving track in remembrance of his father, who passed away on January 23, 2022, and shared a universal message: "We are all travelers on the same path. Let’s live peacefully and focus on doing good during our time on Earth."The music video for “Iwacu Si Ino” features Gogo, an influential figure in Bikem’s life. Through her presence in the visuals, the song honors both her memory and that of Bikem’s father. In an interview with InyaRwanda, Bikem shared the deep connection he felt when creating the song. He said, “Greetings to all my friends, wherever you are. My name is Bikem wa Yesu. This song, 'Iwacu Si Ino,' took two months to create, but I initially hesitated to release it. I didn’t understand why then."
Reflecting further, he said, “I wrote this song to honor our father, who passed away several years ago. Many of you know this story and the family I come from. Even though I wanted to release the song earlier, something always held me back."
He continued, "Gogo Gloriose appears in the video, initially cast as an actress or figurant. I now realize God intended the song to come out after her passing, so it could serve as her own tribute. I’m amazed at God’s plans."
Sharing the song’s message, he added, “This song is for everyone alive. Always remember, this world is not our eternal home. Let this reminder encourage love and peace among all. Thank you for listening. Today, I release this song to honor Papa and Gogo while reminding us all that our true home is in Heaven."
Who was Pastor Canisius to Bikem wa Yesu?
Bikem wa Yesu spoke deeply about his father, who passed away three years ago. He shared, “My father was my parent, my pastor, my mentor, and my role model. He often told me, 'The only gift I want from you is your commitment to honor God.' That wisdom has stayed with me."
Who was Gogo Gloriose to Bikem wa Yesu?
Describing Gogo, Bikem wa Yesu said, “Gogo Gloriose was my daughter, my sister, and a source of joy for me and others. To me, she was like an angel because, during all our time together, I never saw her make a mistake or commit a sin.”
Bikem emphasized Gogo’s faithfulness to God, highlighting, “She respected and feared the Lord deeply. Gogo was an expert in prayer. She passed away due to complications from breathing issues. Thinking of her now, I believe she is rejoicing in Heaven."
During Gogo’s burial, Bikem shared the significance of her final song, “Inzira Ebyiri” ("Two Paths"). He said, “I thank God that Gogo witnessed His works before she passed. Her last song calls for repentance, urging people to turn away from sin."
A brief history of Rev. Pastor Nzabonimpa Canisius, Bikem wa Yesu’s father
Rev. Pastor Nzabonimpa Canisius, Bikem’s father, was a prominent figure in ADEPR Church. He passed away in Rubavu District while fulfilling his mission of spreading God’s word. Known for his profound teachings, he greatly influenced Rwanda’s ADEPR community.
At 65, Pastor Canisius passed away in 2022, having retired from ADEPR Gihundwe. Throughout his career, he led several parishes, including Ntura, Bigutu, Rwahi, and Gihundwe, in the former Western Region of Rwanda.
Before his passing, he planned additional sermon DVDs following the success of his 2017 release. These included titles like “The Right Way to Live in Christ Jesus” and “Manifesting God’s Presence in Creation."
Pastor Canisius also reached global audiences with sermons in France, Norway, and Belgium between December 2017 and February 2018.
A brief history of Gogo, who was mentored by Bikem wa Yesu
Tragedy struck on September 4, 2025, with the news of Gogo's passing during her missionary work in Uganda. She reportedly suffered from a chronic heart condition and passed away due to "Asphyxia," a condition caused by insufficient oxygen.
Bikem wa Yesu, who was closely connected with Gogo as her ‘manager,’ mourned her deeply. He said, “Rest in Peace, Gogo. Such heartbreaking news. God, strengthen my heart." Bikem had accompanied her to Uganda for several performances, including one with Pastor Wilson Bugembe.
Born in 1989 in Rwamagana District, Gogo was an Anglican Christian who overcame early losses of her parents. In 2024, she rose to Gospel fame with her viral song “Blood of Jesus,” which gained international acclaim.
On September 8, 2025, Gogo was laid to rest in Fumbwe Sector, Rwamagana District. The president of Umucyo Choir from the Anglican Church described her passing as a significant loss. He noted that she was at a promising stage of her ministry.
Bikem wa Yesu Pays Tribute to His Father and Gogo Who Supported Him in Music
Bikem wa Yesu stated he considered Gogo an angel, having never witnessed her doing wrong during their time together.
Rev. Pastor Nzabonimpa, Bikem wa Yesu’s father, was a prominent ADEPR pastor who preached in Rwanda and internationally.
The tragic death of Gogo, mentored by Bikem wa Yesu, deeply impacted many people within and outside Rwanda.
Gogo’s loss devastated many, including Ugandan artists such as Bruno K.
WATCH THE NEW SONG "IWACU SI INO" BY BIKEM WA YESU.
WATCH THE SONG "INZIRA EBYIRI," GOGO’S FINAL TRACK