This event took place on Sunday, June 1, 2025, in Kigali City, organized in collaboration with Rwanda's National Culture Institute.
Niyitegeka Gratien, the creator and lead actor of the film series "Papa Sava," shared with InyaRwanda that the cast chose to visit these heritage museums to enhance their understanding of Rwanda’s transformative history. This effort also aligns with the National Culture Institute’s campaign to inspire Rwandans and international visitors to explore the museums that preserve the country’s rich cultural heritage.
He stated: “They wanted us to collaborate by visiting the heritage museums to learn about history. It’s also part of supporting the National Culture Institute’s effort to encourage others to visit Rwanda’s historical museums.”
Niyitegeka disclosed that their journey included the Campaign Against Genocide Museum located in Kimihurura. Here, they delved into the chilling documentation of how the genocide against the Tutsi was planned, executed, and halted.
He emphasized how vital it is for artists to safeguard historical truths, reject distortion, and use historical lessons to promote unity and societal progress.
He remarked, “We were educated about how the genocide was organized, carried out, stopped, and how Rwanda began its rebuilding journey. As artists, we found that some creative individuals and musicians contributed detrimentally to the genocide. This teaches us to be advocates for positive societal transformation and harmonious relations.”
The cast's exploration extended to the Kigali Art Museum located in Kanombe, where they marveled at art collections crafted by Rwandan artists and uncovered the historical backdrop of artistic development in Rwanda.
They also viewed historic films produced in Rwanda during the years 1949 and 1953, fueling their appreciation for the nation’s rich artistic and cinematic heritage.
Niyitegeka reflected on the meaningful discussions held with museum officials, emphasizing how the knowledge gained and exhibits seen motivated the cast to utilize art as a transformative force for nation-building.
He added: “We explored a lot, had conversations with responsible individuals. It was an enlightening journey filled with lessons. All of this was part of the collaboration between Papa Sava and the National Culture Institute to preserve culture and use art for sustainable development.”
The cast of Papa Sava committed themselves to becoming ambassadors of progress, promoting unity among Rwandans, and undertaking significant actions through storytelling, film productions, and other art forms.
These visits were part of their broader efforts to enhance music, cinema, and art—rooted in values that foster societal growth.
Actor Niyitegeka Gratien with his team during their visit to the Genocide Memorial on Sunday, June 1, 2025.
Actress Dusenge Clenia, known as Madederi in Papa Sava, also attended the event.
The Papa Sava cast learned about the Campaign Against Genocide at the museum.
At the Kigali Art Museum in Kanombe, they watched films showcasing Rwanda’s cultural heritage.
The Papa Sava team was briefed on the historical role of artists in Rwanda’s journey and what lessons it offers the youth.
They pledged to become a voice for artists contributing to nation-building through purposeful art and storytelling.
Actor Regero Norbert, famously known as Digidigi, with Tuyize Musa, another Papa Sava cast member.
