Yarakoze Seth Kefa Ishimwe is a student of Journalism and Communication at the University of Rwanda, a journalist, radio actor and playwright captivating listeners across the country with his radio plays on Radio Salus’ program, Ikinamico.
Born in Uganda and raised in Gatsibo District in a family of four children. 20,Yarakoze, began writing dramas in senior four at his high school, where he was taking a combination of Literature in English, Kinyarwanda, and Kiswahili (LKK).
In their Kinyarwanda class, they were learning how to write a good drama, and he wrote a play that students performed in front of the classroom. The teacher was impressed and loved it.
“After that, I entered a storytelling competition organized by Inteko y’Umuco in 2021, and out of over 800 stories, mine entitled “Ibyakozwe na Kaberuka” was placed fourth in the country, and I was awarded.” recalls Yarakoze, who is now a member of Iriba Performing Art, a group within Radio Salus that performs drama.
Kefa receiving an award from the storytelling competition organized by Inteko y’Umuco in 2021.
“I initially joined as an actor, but later I also started writing for their dramas with Eric Rugerinyange as my coach, “he said.
In 2023, he became the best radio drama actor of the year on Radio Salus. His radio plays include Urugendo Rwe, Amerwe y’Impyisi, Umuyonga w’Imishishi, Ikirezi Nambaye among others.
Yarakoze says that romance is the most compelling theme in his radio plays, as it resonates deeply with the audience, especially the youth.
“Audiences are particularly drawn to stories of tragedy in romance, such as when characters suffer through love or experience betrayal,” he said
To ensure that his plays resonate with a wide range of audiences, he added that when he writes a story set in a rural area, he uses names from real rural places, often in Kinyarwanda, and incorporates authentic settings rather than inventing new ones.
“For urban audiences, I incorporate activities and scenarios specific to city life, which helps them relate to the story. Sometimes I mix both rural and urban elements to bridge the gap, and they align perfectly, allowing both audiences to connect with the play.” says Yarakoze.
He told the Kaminuza Star that to maintain connection with the audience, that after each play, the audience leaves comments or calls in live on the radio. Sometimes they will say they love a particular character because he or she resembles someone they know in real life.
“As a writer, this kind of feedback is motivating because it means I’ve successfully created relatable characters and delivered the message effectively.” Yarakoze noted.
“Digital platforms are used to reach a wide audience,” he says. After performing a play, they upload it on YouTube, for those who missed the live radio broadcast can catch up later.
“We also use social media to post flyers and announcements, letting people know when a radio play will air so they can tune in,” he added.
Having grown up in a rural area, Yarakoze acknowledges that there are many talented individuals, particularly in rural areas and high schools, who lack opportunities to showcase their talent and creativity.
“Organising competitions in high schools could be a great start. Students who have a passion for writing dramas could compete, and the best ones could be awarded and given the chance to develop their skills further.” he urges.
Growing up in his career, he has aspirations to work in Indamutsa, a group within Radio Rwanda that performs drama for his talent to grow and become resourceful.
By Levy Gasana / Kaminuza Star