Ugandan comedian Patrick Salvador, popularly known as Salvado, has called on performers visiting Rwanda to take time to learn about the country’s history and culture, including the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, before stepping on stage. Salvado arrived in Rwanda with fellow comedian Teacher Mpamire on Thursday, March 5, where they headlined “Thank God It’s Funny” comedy show held at Kigali Universe on March 6. HAPPENING: Singer Rlutta performs the song “Umeze Bon” at the “Thank God It’s Funny” comedy show at Kigali Universe, where Ugandan comedians Patrick Salvador and Teacher Mpamire headline alongside local comedians Babu Joe, Herve Kimenyi, Michael Sengazi, Arnold, Muhinde, Rusine,... pic.twitter.com/49dDQZ4V5a — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) March 6, 2026 The comedian said travelling and interacting with different cultures has taught him the importance of understanding the history and sensitivities of the places where artists perform. He noted that arriving early in a country and doing research helps comedians connect better with audiences while avoiding topics that may be painful or misunderstood. According to him, learning about Rwanda’s past is essential for anyone planning to perform in the country. “Every time you travel you learn new cultures. There are some topics I didn’t know were that sensitive until someone took time to explain them to me,” he said, noting that such experiences have helped him grow both personally and professionally. ALSO READ: Salvado apologizes to Rwanda, puts an end to his comedy controversy The Ugandan comedian said he now makes it a point to arrive in Rwanda several days before his performances to understand what has changed in the country and to learn about its culture and values. He added that learning never stops and that artists must continuously educate themselves about the communities they engage with. “It’s very important to come in earlier and do a bit of research—ask about the do’s and don’ts of a country, its culture, and the places people go to,” he said. “Back in the day, I used to take it for granted. I would arrive on the day of the show, stay in my hotel and only come out to perform without doing enough research.” He said that today he approaches his visits differently. “Every time I come to Rwanda, I make it a point to arrive a few days earlier and ask what has changed, what is new, what is acceptable and what is not. Learning never ends. Any comedian coming to Rwanda must respect the culture, norms and values of the people.” Salvado and Teacher Mpamire on Saturday, March 7, visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi to pay their respects and deepen their understanding of the tragic events that claimed over one million lives in 100 days. “I understand what happened, but I need to appreciate and fully understand what really took place during the Genocide,” he said. The comedy night featured performances from several comedians including Muhinde, Arnold, Rusine, Herve Kimenyi, Michael Sengazi and Grihaup, with Babu Joe serving as the host and MC. Singer Rlutta also performed several songs during the event, including “Umeze Bon.” Salvado praised the organisers and performers for pushing Rwanda’s comedy industry forward, expressing confidence that the country’s comedy scene will continue to grow and gain international recognition. “Today was sweet. The audience was amazing as usual,” he said. “The Rwandan audience never lets me down, and that’s why I always make sure I put in the effort to give them something new every time I come back.” He added that he was particularly impressed by the organisers’ decision to promote comedy performances in English. According to Salvado, while Rwanda has many talented comedians, it has sometimes been difficult to recommend them internationally because many perform primarily in Kinyarwanda or French. “This move is very bold because everyone who stepped on stage performed in English, and that is the way to go,” he said. “If you speak a language that cuts across countries, you will definitely reach a wider audience. If you perform only in a local language, you may remain local.” He said comedians such as Babu Joe, Herve Kimenyi and Michael Sengazi are helping open a new chapter for Rwandan comedy, adding that the initiative could grow stronger and become sustainable over time.
