The launch of the ‘Comedy for Peace’ initiative in Ruhuha Sector, Bugesera District, March 29, marked a new chapter in using entertainment as a tool for social transformation among the community. The event, which coincided with the monthly community service program Umuganda, was brought to life by local comedians and actors, who came together for a noble cause of spreading positive change. Among participants at the event in Bugesera were also influencers, footballers, and socialites who joined to support the comedians’ initiative. WATCH: Several comedians joined by actors, influencers, and socialites are conducting Umuganda in Ruhuha Sector, Bugesera District, as part of a new comedy campaign (Comedy for peace) aimed at uplifting communities and driving positive social change through entertainment.... pic.twitter.com/JEccQRf0Am — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) March 29, 2025 Through the event, for instance, at least Rwf 600,000 was raised to pay for Mutuelle de Santé, Rwanda’s community-based health insurance, benefiting 200 individuals. Organizers pledged to make the support annually so as to extend aid to even more people in need in the future. Beyond financial contributions, the event also featured a football match between a team of comedians and Bugesera-based second tier side Unity FC. Drawing an estimated 8,000 spectators, the match not only entertained people but also provided a platform for local authorities to interact with the members of the community. Messages promoting unity, development, and social cohesion were shared, reinforcing the broader purpose of the initiative. Comedians also had the opportunity to interact directly with the audience, who expressed appreciation for their arts and the impact they are making beyond traditional entertainment spaces. This shift from comedy being merely a source of amusement to a means of social inspiration was widely praised. Angelique Umwali, the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Affairs in Bugesera District, commended the initiative and urged residents to embrace patriotism, unity, and commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi (Kwibuka). “We are just a few days to the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Let’s stand against genocide ideology, which are externally pressured by genocidal people. We are smart and knowledgeable people—we can use our platforms to stand for our country,” she said. She encouraged them to continue using their voices and talents to strengthen communities and inspire young people. Sam Zuby, the brains behind ‘Comedy for Peace,’ said the initiative is just beginning, adding that they plan to expand its reach and create even more avenues for comedians to engage in meaningful community service. “Comedy for peace means a lot. It brings development, blessings, security, well-being, and more. Our aim was to educate, entertain, and inform. This is what comedy should be all about,” He told The New Times. The comedian, who rose to fame under the Zuby Comedy concept with his colleague Seth, explained that the coincidence with Umuganda doesn’t necessarily mean that the initiative will always go hand in hand with it. He clarified that Umuganda was just one of many initiatives aimed at driving positive change in communities, particularly for vulnerable people “We have a roadmap of our activities. Our next stop could be rehabilitation centers, especially Iwawa in Rutsiro District. Those people need our support, and we believe that, through our comedy, we can provide a little bit of relief and gradually transform them. We believe we can do it, adding to the government’s efforts,” he noted. Several figures in the entertainment scene who attend the activity commended the comedians on using their platform to create meaningful change. Among them was Sandra Inkingi Kamatari, an actor and marketing professional who has starred in Pattyno's skits and the Ganza film series. Other notable figures included Aisha Inkindi, Nyaxo, Mitsutsu, and more who have built a name in the acting world.
