This legendary figure, Gratien Niyitegeka, continues to shine as a cornerstone of Rwandan culture and entertainment. Known as Papa Sava, his extensive fanbase spans social media, radio, TV, and video platforms. His work not only entertains thousands but also generates notable revenue.
In 2023, Gratien celebrates an impressive milestone—30 years of dedication in Rwanda's cultural and entertainment industry. His remarkable journey is defined by creativity, resilience, and a talent for adapting to the times.
In an exclusive interview with InyaRwanda, Gratien, affectionately known as ‘Papa Sava,’ reflected on his career, sharing how determination and a commitment to evolving with the industry’s needs have been instrumental in his success.
He explained, "It’s been 30 years in the arts industry overall. Cinema hasn’t been around as long, but it’s growing steadily. So yes, 30 years committed to the arts."
He further stated, "One major factor in my longevity is finding encouragement along the way. Sometimes, you simply create, and out of nowhere, you receive a spark of motivation! [...] Perhaps inspiration comes from the great talents of your community, like Alex Kagame. It's that encouragement and determination that build us."
Born in the scenic hills of Kiyanza (now Ntarabana Sector, Rulindo District), on November 25, 1978, Gratien overcame a tough childhood. Despite challenges, he emerged with a natural ability for comedy and acting. These talents opened doors to his current success.
As a young boy, Gratien entertained crowds at weddings, in churches, and during school events. Witnesses marveled at his exceptional gift for humor and heartfelt storytelling.
These humble beginnings served as the foundation for a long and fruitful career built on dedication, discipline, and a deep belief in his craft.
In high school, Gratien became known as a storyteller, crafting his first significant work in 1996—a reconciliation-focused narrative.
“What a Day”: Papa Sava’s Highly Anticipated Film
From beloved TV series to groundbreaking cinema, Gratien now embarks on a new chapter with "What a Day," his feature film debut. This project is a long-awaited answer to fans who have been asking for a complete movie instead of just TV series.
He revealed, "Fans have been asking for a full-length feature for years. They’ve said, ‘Why not create something that concludes everything in one film?’ [...] This time, everything came together—better production quality, skilled staff, and the right venues—to create something truly remarkable."
He added, "Another reason I pursued this was my readiness to create something substantial—aligned with my past works. Balancing comedy and drama daily is challenging, but I felt it was the right moment to embrace this larger project."
Gratien also elaborated on how this film is a stepping stone toward global recognition and awards. "More importantly, I had promised this film to my fans," he said.
The production of "What a Day" cost between 10 and 20 million RWF and was crafted with cutting-edge techniques while maintaining authenticity.
He explained, "Post-production is underway—polishing the sound and visuals—so by the end of October, it will be ready. It won’t debut on YouTube but will premiere exclusively on Zacu TV in January 2026. Before that, it will be showcased to select audiences."
Gratien added, "The filming took nine days [...] I didn’t do this alone, as Zacu Entertainment partnered with me. While the budget exceeded 10 million RWF, there’s a possibility it was slightly above or below, considering contributions from collaborators. Many hands made this project possible."
The film features a mix of actors, primarily extras, while the lead supporting roles are played by Uwabeza Leocadie and Kayirangwa Alice.
These actors breathe life into "What a Day," contributing to its grounded, relatable story.
According to Papa Sava, the film transcends entertainment—it epitomizes his 30-year journey, blending elements of music, cinema, and storytelling to deliver a unified cultural message.
The themes delve into the human experience, navigating struggles and adversity while celebrating resilience and hope. It’s another example of Papa Sava’s ability to fuse music, film, and Rwandan culture into powerful narratives.
Building a 30-Year Legacy in Rwanda’s Arts Industry
Throughout his career, Gratien’s work has become a legacy, showcasing the transformative potential of art in shaping society—fostering unity, cultural preservation, and optimism. Most fans remember him fondly for iconic roles in "Papa Sava" and "Seburikoko," which resonated deeply with Rwandan audiences.
Since the 1990s, Gratien Niyitegeka has risen from a local stage performer to a national figure, significantly contributing to the development of Rwanda’s artistic landscape. For him, art is not merely a career—it’s a legacy that touches hearts and upholds cultural identity.
30 years later, Gratien’s passion and commitment remain steadfast, leaving an unmistakable mark on Rwanda’s entertainment industry.
From radio plays to unforgettable YouTube series, Gratien has defined his career through resilience and innovation.
"What a Day" represents the culmination of a dream, fulfilling the wishes of fans who eagerly awaited a feature-length film.
This ambitious film highlights Gratien’s skillful directing and acting, built on decades of experience.
Papa Sava believes, “Art is not just about creation; it’s the legacy left in people’s hearts.”
For 30 years, his storytelling has brilliantly educated and promoted Rwandan culture through humor and drama.
"Discipline, creativity, and perseverance"—Gratien's formula for continued success over three decades.