Niyitegeka Gratien, widely known as Papa Sava, has become a household name in Rwandan cinema. He revealed to InyaRwanda that his latest film projects are a tribute to his dedication spanning three decades, a journey he says has profoundly shaped his life and brought remarkable achievements.
He shared: “At the end of this year, I will have completed 30 years in the arts. I have finished some films, and let me tell you that if, by December 31, 2025, you haven’t seen a short or feature-length film from me, then know I lied.”
One of the films was penned by Iriniga Denys, and another has reached completion. While Niyitegeka is eager to release both titles, his busy schedule—including filming for the popular series Seburikoko—might lead to only one film debuting this year.
He emphasized: “This year, I might release either one or two films, depending on how things go.”
Apart from the upcoming films, Niyitegeka is gearing up for a landmark concert to celebrate his 30-year journey. The event will serve as a platform to officially unveil his new cinematic projects.
His iconic film Papa Sava continues to draw thousands of viewers nationwide, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in Rwandan entertainment and motivating him to maintain the high standard fans have come to expect.
Over three decades, Niyitegeka Gratien, recognized by his stage names Papa Sava and Seburikoko, has played an integral role in shaping Rwanda’s cinema landscape.
Through his tireless commitment to artistic education and storytelling, Niyitegeka has earned the admiration of multiple generations of movie enthusiasts.
Launching his career in the 1990s, in an era when filmmaking technologies were scarce, he began with theatrical performances and serialized dramas. His exceptional ability to weave humor with compelling messages quickly garnered attention.
Niyitegeka gained widespread recognition following his performance in Seburikoko, a film that humorously yet thoughtfully explored rural life and the challenges faced by its inhabitants. Later, Papa Sava cemented his reputation as a versatile actor combining everyday narratives with comedy brilliance.
His body of work consistently celebrates Rwandan language, attire, and traditions, transforming his films into cultural artifacts. Fans often praise his authenticity, noting that his storytelling feels like reliving their own experiences.
Collaborating with diverse writers and filmmakers throughout his career, Niyitegeka has championed teamwork to elevate his craft, introducing innovative ideas that enhance the quality of his productions.
Despite hurdles such as financial constraints, a limited market, and insufficient technological resources, Niyitegeka’s resilience has ensured the creation of impactful films that continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
His work connects fans from different walks of life—from tech-savvy youth to older viewers yearning for traditional tales. This unique ability has positioned him as a cultural unifier and a prominent figure in Rwandan cinema.
Marking this milestone year, Niyitegeka Gratien plans to host a grand concert in 2025 celebrating his 30 years as an artist, alongside the premiere of his two latest films—one written by Iriniga Denys. Both projects are expected to launch before the year ends.
Over three decades, Papa Sava has established himself as not just a comedian and storyteller but a cultural ambassador and icon of Rwandan cinema. He has shown that art is not merely a career; it’s a profound way of life.
Papa Sava prepares to delight cinephiles with his latest films marking his 30th year in the arts.
Three decades of bringing humor and life lessons—Papa Sava remains at the forefront of cinema.
Seburikoko, Papa Sava, and others—Niyitegeka Gratien continues to sculpt the future of Rwandan cinema.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH NIYITEGEKA GRATIEN, FAMOUSLY KNOWN AS PAPA SAVA.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE LATEST EPISODE OF PAPA SAVA BY NIYITEGEKA GRATIEN.