26-year-old Emmanuel Mugisha is a comedian and movie actor who goes by the stage names Clapton and Kibonke. He has starred in a number of TV series including the famous Seburikoko. He talked to Sunday Magazine’s Sharon Kantengwa about his career journey and passion for comedy.

Why choose comedy?

I started comedy in 2014. I used to post funny pictures on social media and people started perceiving me as a funny person. I didn’t know they would turn out to be funny. A friend of mine who was also a comedian later on invited me to join the comedy crew. I started acting when I got a message from Roger Niyoyita who I didn’t know at that time asking if I am interested to act in a comedy TV show. 

He was directing a movie called Agacube Barbershop on TV 10. It was hard for me at first because it was my first time to face the camera but he gave me chance to improve. With a friend who is also comedian, we later started our own show called The RamJaane show on Lemigo TV. I later did some training at Goethe institute to improve my acting skills and I intend to go for further training.

How did you end up starring in Seburikoko?

I talked to the producer of Seburikoko asking him for a chance to act in the series. He later called me to sign a contract with him and I have never looked back. My role in the comedy series is one of a conceited person and talkative. Kibonke is simply a conman who is trying to make a living from people’s pockets and uses these tricks to make a living. Having grown up in Gatsibo district in the Eastern province, I find it quite convenient to act in a rural setting.

What makes acting interesting to you?

Most of my fans are kids and I feel blessed to be loved by them. I am happy that I can take care of my siblings through acting. I love the fact that I make people smile even on the street and I love it when I am watching what I have acted. Outside acting I am a humble person and a Christian

Which comedians inspire you?

My colleague Gratien Niyitegeka. He is so talented and I learn a lot from him. Internationally, Kevin hart, Eddy Murphy, Klint de drunk and Eric Omond inspire me.

What do you think of the film industry here in Rwanda? Is it where it is supposed to be?

We still have a long journey. We need to be professional. Everyone needs to try their best to maximise their contribution in an integral way. Most of us do things out of passion, but we need to learn more to enable us improve our skills.

What are your future plans?

This month I intend to start my new show called "Funny me with Clapton”. I also want into venture into advertising as one of my dreams is to be an ambassador of a big company in Rwanda. This is because acting alone doesn’t pay enough money.

Parting words

I encourage all those who have talent to develop them. Also discipline is the only way to prop up creativity.