Top 50 Rwandan Poets to Watch in 2026: Leading Voices in Literature

Rwanda’s vibrant poetry scene thrives with both established slam champions and emerging voices. This list highlights 50 influential Rwandan poets, ranked by their artistic achievements, international recognition and creative output. We emphasize each poet’s contributions to Rwandan literature and spoken word through publications, performances and community impact.   

                     

1. Fred Mfuranzima – Literary Advocate and Peace Poet: Fred Mfuranzima is a Rwandan poet, writer and reconciliation advocate. He founded the Imfura Heritage Rwanda NGO in 2018 to advance Rwandan arts and peace education. His bilingual collections, including Never Again, In Low Voice and African Dreamer, tackle genocide memory and healing, reflecting his dedication to national reconciliation. Mfuranzima’s international presence – with contributions to anthologies and writing workshops – has made him a key figure bridging poetry and community healing.

2. Carine Poet – Empowering Slam Poet and Cultural Icon: Carine Maniraguha is a leading Rwandan slam poet and artist. Beyond acting and modeling, she rose to fame for her poetry, contributing radio plays, children’s books and numerous performance pieces. In 2018 she founded the Ibanga Poetic Night series and a cultural initiative called The Art of Telling Hair Stories, blending poetry with Rwandan cultural themes. A two-time national slam champion, Carine uses her art to empower young women, earning her a reputation as Rwanda’s top poetess. Her bold performances and media presence make her an iconic voice in Rwanda’s spoken word scene.

3. Aristide Ndahayo – Patriotic Slam Poet of National History: Aristide Ndahayo is a young Rwandan slam poet known for weaving patriotic and historical themes into his work. In 2023 he represented Rwanda at the African Cup of Slam Poetry in Bamako, showcasing his emotive storytelling about the country’s history and identity. Though early in his career, his dynamic performances have gained praise for capturing Rwanda’s spirit and heritage. Ndahayo stands out as a fresh voice in Rwanda’s spoken word scene, honoring national memory through poetry and inspiring pride in youth audiences.

4. Inkindi Muctar  – Rising Bilingual Voice of Hope: Inkindi Muctar is an emerging Kigali-based poet and theatre enthusiast. He crafts verses in both Kinyarwanda and English on themes of love, peace and mental health, reflecting contemporary youth concerns. Active in local spoken-word circles, Inkindi regularly performs at open-mic events and contributes to community literary platforms. His bilingual style and focus on social issues mark him as a rising talent among Rwanda’s new generation of poets, bringing fresh perspective to the country’s literary scene.

5. Eric Ngangare (“Eric 1Key”) – Innovative Multilingual Poet and Musician: Eric Ngangare, stage name Eric 1Key, is a Rwandan rap-slam artist known for his multilingual approach. His 2015 debut album Entre 2 blends Kinyarwanda, French, English and more, reflecting Rwanda’s cultural diversity. Recognized as one of the country’s leading creative talents, Eric balances roles as a rapper, blogger and advocate in Kigali’s live music scene. His lyrics tackle personal and social issues, and his fusion of hip-hop and poetry has made him an influential figure in Rwanda’s spoken word scene.

6. Sylvestre Nsengimana – Slam Poetry Pioneer and Performance Artist: Sylvestre Nsengimana is a Rwandan poet, playwright and performance artist. Born in 1993, he founded UMUT Arts Rwanda (2018) and launched U SPEAK LIVE in 2024 – the country’s first organized slam-poetry collective. His published works include the poetry book The Journey and the EP MU RWANDA, showcasing his blend of theatre and spoken word. Nsengimana’s poetry addresses personal growth and national themes, and his innovative slam events and leadership in Kinyarwanda arts have made him a key figure in Rwanda’s contemporary literary scene.

7. Junior Rumaga – Youth Poetry Mentor and Community Leader: Junior Rumaga is a vibrant spoken-word poet and youth entrepreneur based in Kigali. He leads the Ibyanzu Poetry Collective and runs SIGA Rwanda, a creative hub that fosters young literary talent. Rumaga gained attention with his poem “Amour Scolaire”, about school life and young love, and in 2023 he hosted the album-launch concert “Mawe”. His dual role as performer and mentor, along with community-building through SIGA Rwanda events and showcases, makes him an influential organizer in Rwanda’s poetry scene, nurturing the next generation of Rwandan poets.

8. Saranda – Dynamic Social Justice Poet of the Streets: Saranda is a dynamic Rwandan spoken-word artist often called the “poetic voice of the ghetto.” Her breakout poem “Ghetto”, which highlights urban youth struggles, earned acclaim for its raw emotional power. She regularly performs at events like the Komera Slam and national commemoration ceremonies, using poetry to inspire hope amid hardship. At the 2025 Igihango Urungano Arts festival, her performance moved audiences to “tears of hope.” Saranda’s focus on social justice and her growing popularity position her as a leading voice for Kigali’s marginalized youth.

9. Mwalimu Lakhpin – Innovative Spoken-Word Musician: Emmanuel Muhire, better known as Lakhpin Basote, is a prominent Rwandan spoken-word artist and musician known for ambitious cross-disciplinary projects. Born in 1989, he co-founded the Ingeri arts group and the Lakhtrem collective, and serves as Rwanda’s Ambassador to the African Cup of Slam Poetry. A member of the World Poetry Movement, Lakhpin blends poetry with music: his debut album Intero y’Umwige (2020) features poetic narratives set to music. His art frequently addresses conscience, psychosocial embrace and social change, reflecting his high profile in both local and pan-African poetry communities.

10. Nadine Umuhoza – Empowerment and Healing Poet: Nadine Umuhoza is a Rwandan slam poet whose work celebrates empowerment and healing. She was a 2022 finalist in the ArtRwanda Ubuhanzi slam competition, and her poem “Karame” – honoring women’s strength and beauty – debuted at a national peace event. Nadine frequently performs at memorial commemorations and cultural festivals, blending personal narrative with Rwanda’s reconciliation journey. Her poetic focus on unity and recovery signals her emerging influence in the Rwandan literary community as a voice for hope.

11. Gentil Busoro – Emerging Poet with Fresh Perspective: Gentil Busoro is an emerging Rwandan poet known for his fresh perspective on identity and hope. In 2025 he was invited into the Ibyanzu poetry collective, which highlights promising young talent. He frequently performs at Kigali open-mic events and contributed to recent youth poetry anthologies. Though early in his career, Gentil’s creative output and community engagement suggest he will play an influential role among Rwanda’s next-generation writers, offering new insights on identity and resilience through his verse.

12. Olivier Tuyisenge – Versatile Slam Poet and Cultural Facilitator: Olivier Tuyisenge, honored with the title “Umusizi” for Rwanda’s esteemed poets, is a slam poet and cultural facilitator. Born in 1995, he is also an actor, lyricist and radio host. A former winner of Rwanda’s national Icyivugo traditional poetry contest, Olivier now organizes the “Kigali Vibrates with Poetry” series, bringing spoken word to broader audiences. Known for his magnetic stage presence, he blends oral tradition with modern slam while mentoring young performers. His multi-disciplinary portfolio makes him one of Rwanda’s most versatile literary leaders.

13. Murekatete “Lily Poete” – Youth Poet of Hope and Resilience: Murekatete “Lily Poete” is a promising young Rwandan poet and 2025 inductee of the Ibyanzu collective. She writes verses in both Kinyarwanda and English on themes of hope and resilience after trauma, reflecting Rwanda’s healing journey. Lily has featured in Ibyanzu poetry showcases and publications, and her early work – shared online and at slam nights – already displays notable poetic maturity. As one of Kigali’s youngest voices, her growing repertoire suggests she is a poet to watch for future contributions to Rwanda’s literary scene.

14. Karile Odile – Emerging Youth Poet and Cultural Voice: Karile Odile is a young Rwandan spoken-word artist who joined the Ibyanzu poetry collective in 2025. She has performed at national slams and cultural ceremonies like the Kwibuka genocide memorial, often writing on education, youth aspirations and unity. Though early in her career, Karile regularly appears at school and community festivals, building her presence in Rwanda’s literary community. Her emerging leadership role within Ibyanzu suggests she will continue producing poems and performances that resonate with Rwandan youth.

15. Zuhla Bagirinka – Poet of Remembrance and Peace: Zuhla Bagirinka is a Rwandan spoken-word performer whose work centers on remembrance and healing. She co-wrote and performed the poem “We Against Genocide” at the 2024 Igihango cy’Urungano commemoration, emphasizing peace and unity. Zuhla has been noted in The New Times as a young artist speaking on peace. Her focus on Rwanda’s history and collective memory, along with her growing presence at cultural events, mark her as an influential emerging voice addressing the country’s past through poetry.

16. Ineza Nkindi Kevin – Emerging Introspective Bilingual Poet: Ineza Nkindi Kevin is a young Rwandan poet-performer who writes in both Kinyarwanda and English. His introspective poetry explores themes of identity, society and personal aspirations. Kevin has been featured at school events and local festivals, and as a member of the Ibyanzu collective he contributes to youth poetry anthologies and open-mic showcases. Though early in his career, his emerging body of work reflects Rwanda’s new generation of literary voices, bringing thoughtful reflection to contemporary issues.

17. Mugisha Richard – Musical Poet Fusing Poetry and Song: Mugisha Richard is a musician-poet with the Ibyanzu collective who blends poetry with music. A graduate of the Nyundo School of Music, he writes and performs lyrics in Kinyarwanda and Swahili on social issues and personal faith. In addition to singing and rapping, Richard regularly performs spoken-word pieces. His fusion of poetic verse with beats has helped bring Rwandan poetry into music venues, making him a versatile creative voice expanding the reach of spoken word in Rwanda.

18. Patrick Nzabonimpa (Tom) – Poet, Journalist and Literary Advocate: Patrick Nzabonimpa, also known as Tom, is a prominent Rwandan poet, writer and journalist. He serves as Country Coordinator for Writers Space Africa – Rwanda since 2020, organizing literary programs and workshops. Patrick’s work spans poetry, fiction and journalism, with pieces published in Writers Space Africa magazine, Brittle Paper and various anthologies. A PEN-Copenhagen residency fellow and contest winner, he also writes cultural commentary. His dual role as creator and literary organizer makes him an influential figure in Rwanda’s contemporary literary scene.

19. Gashema Celestin – Kinyarwanda Poet and Community Voice: Gashema Celestin is a Rwandan poet-songwriter who writes primarily in Kinyarwanda on community life, tradition and youth aspirations. He is a member of the Ibyanzu poetry collective and has contributed to their anthologies. Celestin also performs at local open-mic events and cultural festivals around Kigali. Though not yet widely published, his growing presence in the Ibyanzu lineup and on video platforms suggests he is becoming a recognized voice in Rwanda’s literary community, celebrating Rwandan heritage in verse.

20. Mugwaneza Ange Jerome (Keane Yambi Hug) – Urban Spoken-Word Poet and Youth Advocate: Mugwaneza Ange Jerome, known by his stage name Keane Yambi Hug, is a Rwandan spoken-word poet with the Ibyanzu collective. His performances highlight urban life and youth issues, delivered with a passionate, streetwise style. He has appeared at literary events and grassroots gatherings like #SlamCity, engaging young audiences with his energetic delivery. As an Ibyanzu member, Keane Yambi Hug’s authentic voice enriches Kigali’s slam poetry scene and speaks to the experiences of Rwandan youth.

21. Mugisha Trezor – Aspiring Poet of Hope and Change: Mugisha Trezor is an emerging Rwandan poet known for writing about hope and social change. An active member of the Ibyanzu collective, he has appeared at Kigali poetry showcases and youth open-mic events. His body of work is still developing as he gains exposure through Ibyanzu platforms. Trezor represents a new generation of Rwandan poets using verse to address community issues and envision a brighter future, embodying the optimism of Rwanda’s young writers.

22. Sandra Nadege Uwayezu – Memoirist and Mental Health Advocate: Sandra Nadege Uwayezu is a Rwandan poet and memoirist based in Kigali. She has published poetry collections such as The First Creation and Sense and Sensation, as well as a memoir Light in the Dark, often focusing on themes of mental health and personal struggle. Sandra has been featured in magazines like Writers Space Africa and The Swala Tribe, and she speaks publicly about using writing to address depression among young Rwandans. As a literary activist, she combines storytelling with advocacy for mental wellness, using her personal narratives to encourage healing.

23. Gahenda – Dynamic Slam Performer and Mentor: Gahenda is a Rwandan spoken-word poet active in the Ibyanzu community. Performing primarily in Kinyarwanda, his work tackles contemporary social issues with a dynamic stage presence. He has appeared at events like the Kurema youth literary festival and various poetry competitions. Known locally as an energetic performer and mentor to other young poets, Gahenda helps strengthen Rwanda’s spoken word culture and supports the next wave of literary talent.

24. Niyomukiza Gildas – Cultural Poet and Collective Founder: Niyomukiza Gildas is a Rwandan poet known for co-founding the Urugeera poetry group in 2025. Through Urugeera, he collaborates on collective works like “Imbyino ya nyuma” and highlights traditional Rwandan imagery – from proverbs to dance – in his verse. The Urugeera collective focuses on poetic exchange and community development, reflecting Gildas’s interest in ethics and heritage. As a cultural advocate, he helps bridge poetry with Rwanda’s traditional arts and values.

25. Twayigize Alphonse – Poet of Values and Sustainability: Twayigize Alphonse is a Rwandan poet and co-founder of the Urugeera collective. He writes uplifting poems in Kinyarwanda that emphasize community values and sustainability. Alphonse regularly contributes to Urugeera’s communal performances and poetry workshops, helping engage youth with artistic expression. While specific publications are not widely listed, his active role in Urugeera’s projects highlights his commitment to merging poetry with social values and ethical development.

26. Dushime Polycarpe – Lead Urugeera Poet and Social Advocate: Dushime Polycarpe is the lead poet and co-founder of Urugeera, a Rwandan poetry collective aimed at social change. He champions the idea of “urugera” – poetic exchange – using verse to promote community dialogue and development. Polycarpe’s poems often incorporate traditional Kinyarwanda proverbs and wisdom. An active figure in Kigali’s arts festivals, he frequently leads Urugeera performances and embodies the group’s mission to blend poetry with social advocacy.

27. Niyiduha Placide – Poet for Ethics and Development: Niyiduha Placide is a Rwandan poet and active member of the Urugeera collective. He collaborates on the group’s joint poetry projects, which focus on ethics, development and community values. While he has not published solo works publicly, Niyiduha contributes to Urugeera’s performances and outreach efforts. His role within the collective emphasizes poetry’s role in fostering ethical discussion and positive change in Rwandan society.

28. Amata Inès Giramata – Feminist Poet and Community Organizer: Amata Inès Giramata is a prominent Rwandan poet and feminist activist. As founder of the Sistah Circle collective, she writes and performs personal narratives on gender and women’s empowerment. Inès has been featured at major events, including genocide commemoration ceremonies, and at just 18 she appeared at a significant remembrance event in Washington, D.C. Her writing and activism – covered by outlets like Forbes – highlight Rwanda’s evolving feminist voices in literature, making her a leading champion for women’s rights through poetry.

29. Angeline Akimana – Emerging Poet of Gratitude and Emotion: Angeline Akimana is a Rwandan poet whose work has appeared in Writers Space Africa and other local literary publications. With a background in science, she volunteers in youth development and brings a thoughtful perspective to her art. Angeline’s poetry – such as “A Mystery Measure of Gratitude” – often explores themes of gratitude and human emotion. Though still early in her career, her inclusion in WSA and other anthologies marks her as an emerging voice in Rwandan literature, engaging readers with heartfelt reflection.

30. Elvis Munyansanga – Aspiring Musician and Heartfelt Poet: Elvis Munyansanga is a Rwandan poet and aspiring musician whose work focuses on emotional storytelling. A contributor to Writers Space Africa, he blends Rwandan identity with universal themes in his poetry and lyrics. Elvis has performed in Kigali’s creative scene, channeling his goal to “move hearts” through art. His heartfelt style and cross-genre approach indicate his potential to reach wide audiences in Rwanda and beyond, using both song and verse to connect with listeners.

31. Eric Jovial Hirwa – Poet on Love and Social Issues: Eric Jovial Hirwa is a Rwandan poet writing in both English and Kinyarwanda, featured in Writers Space Africa. His poems tackle themes of love, temptation and mental health – for example, his WSA-published piece “Devil Incarnate” explores temptation’s dark influence on relationships. Performing as Eric Jovial, he brings energetic delivery to local open-mic events and poetry slams. Through both written collections and live performances, Hirwa is establishing himself as a voice addressing personal and social issues in Rwandan literature.

32. Alice Ghislaine Musabe (TakeCare) – Advocate for Mental Health and Feminism: Alice Ghislaine Musabe, writing as TakeCare, is a Rwandan poet and aspiring clinical psychologist. She focuses her poetry on mental health, feminism and love, often encouraging self-care and resilience in her readers. Passionate about psychology, Alice weaves emotional insight and personal experience into her verses. Active in youth outreach programs, she performs at community events, using her words to spark conversations about well-being. By combining her focus on mental health and gender issues, Musabe has become an influential voice in Rwanda’s discussions on healing and empowerment.

33. Gilbert Becko Niyitanga – Educator-Poet with Thoughtful Style: Gilbert Becko Niyitanga is a Rwandan poet and educator currently studying abroad. Known for his emotional and thought-provoking style, his work includes pieces like the prose-poem “Sleeping Candle.” Though he studies HR management, Gilbert remains passionate about writing and aims to move readers with his emotive verses. He publishes poetry and essays online and actively contributes to Writers Space Africa activities. His combination of academic training and creative writing, along with his international perspective, gives him a unique voice in Rwanda’s literary landscape.

34. Armella Gladys Saro Ruganintwali (Ella_ecrit) – Poet of Memory and Healing: Armella Gladys Saro Ruganintwali, writing under the pen name Ella_ecrit, is a Rwandan poet featured in Writers Space Africa. Her acclaimed poems “Death March” and “A Now Peaceful Abode” grapple with trauma, memory and Rwanda’s path to healing. In “A Now Peaceful Abode” she envisions the country’s recovery, writing of trees growing where bullets once grazed. Armella’s goal is to awaken readers with personal stories, and she often performs at reconciliation and remembrance events. Her work blends solemn reflection on the past with a hopeful vision for the future.

35. Jean Aimé Migabo (“Panthera”) – Poet of Resilience and Culture: Jean Aimé Migabo, known by his pen name Panthera, is a Rwandan poet celebrated for themes of resilience and cultural identity. Based in Kigali, his poetry addresses life purpose, love and historical narratives. In Writers Space Africa Issue 2, his poem “Drowning in the Deep” portrays friendship amid trauma, illustrating how memory can heal pain. Fluent in multiple languages, Panthera is active in Rwanda’s creative writing circles and uses his work to inspire others through stories of overcoming hardship and celebrating Rwandan culture.

36. Roger Mugisha – Scientist-Turned-Philosophical Poet: Roger Mugisha is a Rwandan poet and biomedical lab technologist. He brings an analytical mind to his gentle, philosophical poetry, addressing topics like life, love and the healing process. In his WSA-published poem “Birdsong,” he weaves imagery of nature with reflections on resilience. Active in Kigali’s poetry slams and literary nights, Roger stands out for his calm, introspective delivery. He uses poetry as a personal remedy and a way to explore complex ideas, blending his scientific background with creative expression.

37. Gad Shabazz Cyiza – Philosophical Poet and Journalist: Gad Shabazz Cyiza is a Rwandan poet and writer whose work delves into philosophical themes. Writing for publications like Writers Space Africa, he explores identity and human existence – for example, his poem “Black Gold” contemplates personal value and self-discovery. A practicing journalist, Gad’s writing often merges intellectual inquiry with social commentary. His thoughtful perspective and activism on social issues mark him as a notable new voice in Kigali’s literary community, engaging readers in big ideas through poetry and prose.

38. Gisele Umurungi – Poet Blending Science, Humor and Art: Gisele Umurungi is a Rwandan poet and medical graduate who brings a creative flair to both literature and outreach. Her published poems include “Soured Lemonade” (co-written) and “A Zombie Pleading for Your Return,” known for their dark humor and introspective style. Gisele often uses allegory to explore relationships, fear and human emotion. In addition to writing, she promotes poetry through youth clubs, combining her scientific background with creative community engagement. Her dual focus on education and art broadens the audience for Rwanda’s spoken word.

39. Marie Merci Cyurimpundu – Narrative Poet and Multimedia Storyteller: Marie Merci Cyurimpundu is a Rwandan poet and creative nonfiction writer featured in Writers Space Africa. Studying agriculture at RICA, she also hosts the Mpundu Merci podcast, engaging audiences with storytelling. Her work – from the poem “A Hundred Days in the Papyrus” to personal essays – is lyrical and narrative-driven, often reflecting on everyday life in Rwanda. By writing and speaking, Marie uses multiple media to capture and share Rwandan experiences with a wider audience, highlighting the country’s culture through a modern lens.

40. Jazil Aimé Umuhuza – Unity Poet and Remembrance Advocate: Jazil Aimé Umuhuza, writing as JazilPoet, is a Rwandan poet whose work centers on unity and healing. He authored “Mata,” a poem honoring Rwanda’s Liberation Day – and many of his pieces address collective memory and reconciliation. Jazil regularly performs at national remembrance events and poetry slams, using his voice to foster solidarity and comfort. His focus on reconciliation through poetry makes him an influential figure in Rwanda’s cultural healing process.

41. Ange Dusingize – Reconciliation Poet and Hopeful Visionary: Ange Dusingize is a Rwandan poet currently studying abroad, featured in Writers Space Africa. Her poem “My Light Will Shine” meditates on guilt and hope in the post-genocide era, ending with the refrain “Remember, Unite, Renew forever” – echoing Rwanda’s national motto. Ange has published multiple poems in WSA and plans to release a full collection. Her gentle yet determined style, often showcased at peace gatherings, emphasizes unity and a hopeful future for Rwanda.

42. Briane Nkwihoreze – Poetess of Therapy and Empowerment: Briane Nkwihoreze is a Rwandan poet known by a pen name meaning “flowers.” Featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 3, her poem “Seventh April” addresses the anguish and emerging hope of genocide survivors from women’s perspectives. Briane prefers writing to speaking, using poetry to explore mental health and healing. Active in youth programs and charity readings, she advocates for poetry as therapy and helps spread awareness of well-being through her verse.

43. Katia Ibereho Ngarambe – Poet and Editor on Identity: Katia Ibereho Ngarambe is a Rwandan poet and editor highlighted in Writers Space Africa Issue 4. Her poem “Shattered Display” examines self-image and internal scars, reflecting her interest in personal identity. Katia, a literature graduate turned editor, has been crafting poetry and short stories since her youth. She performs at spoken-word events on social themes and uses her editorial expertise to hone her craft. Katia’s dual roles as poet and editor give her a refined voice in Rwanda’s literary community, blending creative writing with language mastery.

44. Panthera Migabo – Educator-Poet of Inner Strength: Panthera Migabo is a Rwandan poet and educator featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 4. With a background in communication and literature, he works as a teacher and writer in Kigali. His poem “Diamond in the Mud” portrays inner strength amid struggle. Panthera has published works in literary magazines like Umukarago (including “Drowning in the Deep”) and writes articles for newspapers. He also mentors young writers, and his diverse skills – from poetry to journalism – along with his upcoming debut collection, mark him as a creative force in Rwanda’s literature.

45. Gladys Teta Ihirwe – Voice of Empowerment and Identity: Gladys Teta Ihirwe is a young Rwandan poet featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 4. Her poem “Beautiful, Black Woman” honors black womanhood and dignity, reflecting her empowering themes. An active blogger, Gladys writes about emotions, dreams and self-worth; WSA notes that her heart “dances with words.” Through personal and aspirational poetry, she engages a wide audience. As part of a new generation of Rwandan writers, Gladys’s work champions identity and empowerment.

46. Peace Opportunee Ingabire – Poet “Peace” on Family and Resilience: Peace Opportunee Ingabire, known simply as “Peace,” is a poet featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 4. Her poem “Beyond the Extremities” uses mirror imagery to explore family relationships and self-image. Based in Kigali, Peace began writing at a young age and continues to grow her audience with her introspective style. Her poetry often focuses on personal resilience and the bonds of family, demonstrating her passionate commitment to the craft even as her career is still emerging.

47. Olabell – Poetry Duo Celebrating Sisterhood: Olabell is a Rwandan poetry duo composed of sisters Olangui and Bella who perform together. Writing since 2017 under the blended name Olabell, they co-author spoken-word pieces that celebrate sisterhood and creative collaboration. Their poem “Bound” (WSA Issue 5) examines themes of freedom and fate. Active on social media and regulars at Kigali open-mic nights, Olabell’s collaborative style encourages audiences and other artists to find a creative “soulmate” in one another through poetry.

48. Denyse Uwimana – Introspective Poet of Family and Faith: Denyse Uwimana is a Rwandan poet featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 5. Her poem “The Calm Echo” portrays a mother’s quiet strength, reflecting Denyse’s inspiration from everyday life. She describes herself as a writer moved by ordinary moments, and her poetry often uses serene imagery to explore family bonds and faith. Active in literary workshops and community writing groups, Denyse’s gentle, introspective work resonates with readers seeking reflection and inner peace.

49. Tekla Shimwa Habumuranga (HST) – Compassionate Poet of War and Peace: Tekla Shimwa Habumuranga, writing as HST, is a Rwandan poet featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 5. Her poem “Out of the Shadow” depicts a woman enduring loss and waiting for justice, exemplifying Tekla’s focus on war-and-peace themes. She writes to “express the unspoken feelings” and “unlock hearts and fuel courage,” aiming to connect readers through shared emotion. Often performing at peace and community events, Tekla’s emotionally rich poetry – frequently in Kinyarwanda – underscores healing and compassion in Rwanda’s recovery narrative.

50. Jean de la Croix Dusenge – Musical Storyteller and Poet of Memory: Jean de la Croix Dusenge is a Rwandan poet and performance artist featured in Writers Space Africa Issue 5. His poem “Voices and Echoes” captures the tension between haunting memories and emerging hope after tragedy. A lover of poetry since 2017, Dusenge often integrates music into his performances, blending sung or chanted verse with vivid imagery. His work addresses Rwanda’s history and personal resilience, and his active presence in Kigali’s poetry slams showcases his role in the nation’s contemporary literary scene.