Since the app’s launch, Rwanda’s TikTok scene has witnessed a dynamic change of creativity and originality as the platform continues to capture worldwide prominence.
The Chinese-based social media app that is popular among Gen Z’s, is a short-form video, usually 15 to 60 seconds long. Users can film videos of themselves lip-syncing, dancing, or acting out sketches, normally comedy, to entertain.
In no particular order, we delve into the content styles of Rwanda’s top 10 TikTokers.
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Muzafaru Ddumba
Muzafaru Ddumba, widely known as ‘Ddumba’, is a popular Rwandan TikToker residing in Canada. His content has earned him 777,000 followers, and counting, making him the most-followed Rwandan TikToker.
He is known for making videos where he listens to and repeats songs by musicians, especially new songs across Africa. He sits in a car, oftentimes wearing a cap, while holding his mobile phone, a signature style that everybody recognises him for.
Didier Mugisha
Mugisha, commonly known as ‘General Benda’, is widely known for coming up with popular dancing videos to new song challenges. He also hilariously imitates the character of a rural woman in skits.
The 25-year-old gained attention in 2020 when he started using the platform for entertainment purposes. However, his content became popular among a large following of over 78,000 people, which eventually became a source of income for him.
"Through the platform, I am able to make a living. It gave me a broader connection with musicians, and the opportunity helped me start creating new challenges and videos that promote their songs in exchange for money,” he said.
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Tito Kimenyi
Kimenyi is famous for his comedy skits where he imitates various individuals including students, and teachers—mostly mothers, under the popular hashtag &039;Moms be like'.
His catchy comics began in 2021 and steadily grew his fan base to over 62,000 people as of now.
The 23-year-old winner of 'Rwanda's Best TikToker 2022' stated that many of his posts would create controversy, but he persevered nonetheless. Like General Benda, he earns money through various activities on the platform.
Ravanelly Twahirwa
"I love the platform. It is really organised compared to others. You cannot find scandalous or mean things except comedy, trends, and other refreshers,” Twahirwa said.
The 22-year-old comedian has won the attention and admiration of many for mimicking different people, but mostly grandmothers and his content got him a large following of over 40,000 people.
"Doing TikTok videos gave me a chance to be recognised by Clapton – he was among those who admired my talent, an opportunity that opened many doors including my fashion brand ‘Intore’, acting and promoting our traditional dance, and all these give me an income.”
Grace Ayinkamiye Teta
Widely known as Teta Grace, she came on the scene in 2019 just for fun, and in 2020, her videos went viral, so she decided to go with the flow like other TikTokers. She has over 36,000 followers. Teta was born and raised in Rwanda and currently lives in Canada for studies.
Yvette Nzaramba
Nzaramba joined the trend of entertainers in 2020. She is a storyteller and actor in comic ways, mostly recapping viral videos. She currently has over 34,000 followers.
Shalom Jackson
Similar to General Benda, Shalom is also known for coming up with dancing videos to new song challenges. He is a dancer, actor, and choreographer and portrays a comic character while imitating the role of a rural woman. He has more than 32,000 followers.
Jessica Nyambo
Nyambo alias ‘Miss Nyambo’ has gained over 30,000 followers. She is an actress and comedian.
Jojo Breezy
Joseph Murego alias ‘Jojo Breezy’ is a professional dancer and widely known as the new song challenge breaker. With a fan base of over 25,000, he is able to make money from the platform.
The Real Gasana
His content is unique compared to others. He contacts individuals who are currently in a relationship and engages in conversation with them. He inquires about their relationship status and the names of their partners. Some individuals respond truthfully, while others fabricate stories to justify their actions. It is fascinating to observe the varied reactions in these situations. He has amassed a following of over 22,000 people.