Emmanuel Rurangwa’s love for photography started at a young age, he recalls how his father bought him his first digital camera, and how he fondly captured moments of his family at various get-togethers.
"As a child, I used to take photos for fun during family meetings, and that’s where my love for photography started,” Rurangwa said.
Rurangwa has come a long way from the boy who captured pictures at family events, making it to prominent events like Tour Du Rwanda, arguably the biggest cycling tournament on the African continent—this transformation unfolded as he recounted his journey in an interview with The New Times.
Love for photography
Rurangwa continued his photography journey while still a high school student at Lycee De Kigali in 2014, this time, equipped with a full-frame camera. In 2016, he decided to pursue a career in photography, marking eight years in the industry today.
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Rurangwa mentioned that he began his career like many photographers, capturing wedding ceremonies. However, he later transitioned to covering other events before ultimately choosing to work independently, stepping away from studio freelancing opportunities.
Tour du Rwanda
Working for himself led to the opportunity to work for Tour du Rwanda in 2021. Rurangwa mentioned that initially, he worked for the competition’s former sponsor, Cogebanque. Describing his experience covering the sport that garners global attention for Rwanda every February, Rurangwa expressed that each year brings a fresh experience, and he is consistently thrilled to grab his camera and join the cyclists on the road.
"Being a photographer for a good and enjoyable sport like cycling is a privilege,” he said.
Rurangwa, who has followed cyclists on a motorbike for two consecutive seasons, stated that to capture unique shots, one must position oneself either in front of or ahead of the peloton to find a strategic and creative angle for taking great photos.
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"You have to think fast so that the peloton finds you with an idea of what you will shoot in mind,” he said.
The 26-year-old said one of the highlights of working with Tour du Rwanda is the chance to explore the country.
"Tour du Rwanda got me the opportunity to visit Rwanda; I enjoy seeing the volcanoes; Nyungwe, and travelling to places like Cyangugu and Nyagatare,” he said, adding that capturing cyclists in tea plantations was also memorable.
Discussing the upcoming 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Rwanda next year, Rurangwa expressed his excitement and confidence in his creative contribution to the event.
Miss Rwanda
Rurangwa, who studied at the University of Kigali in 2022, also served as the official photographer for Rwanda’s former beauty pageant, Miss Rwanda, until its indefinite suspension in 2022.
Reflecting on his time in the competition, Rurangwa described it as a challenging yet rewarding experience, where he diligently crafted photo and video content as the primary photographer.
"Working with Miss Rwanda was a good opportunity to acquire experience and connections. The sleepless nights paid off,” the photographer told The New Times.
Challenges, highlights
Rurangwa mentioned a significant increase in support for the creative industry from investors and the government, leading to fewer challenges for creatives. He also highlighted improved access to equipment for photographers.
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Reflecting on the past, he noted that photography was not widely viewed as a viable career option for making a living. Using his own experience as an example, he emphasised that photography is his primary source of income and has enabled him to achieve success. "I also encourage parents to support creatives in their families,” he added.
After completing the 2022 Tour du Rwanda edition, one of Rurangwa’s career highlights was when the First Daughter, Ange Kagame, and the Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo posted his work on their X timelines.
"I was very happy to see that because it is very encouraging in a person’s journey,” Rurangwa said.
The photographer believes that his uniqueness in photography is his attention to detail which gives him the ability to tell stories creatively.
"I am always ready to use my camera to tell different stories,” he said.
A message
Rurangwa said he welcomes anyone who wants to pursue photography, adding that it’s a big industry that is "still fresh to tap into.”
"As a young creative I encourage you first to take time to equip yourself with information about photography on YouTube,” he said, adding that one does not need to own a camera to begin because they can always approach people who have been in the business for help.
Inspiration, prospects
Rurangwa, also known as Manudy, said he is his own first favourite and others follow. "I am my favourite photographer.”
His list of favourite photographers starts with Rey, with whom he collaborated during Miss Rwanda, followed by Shane Cost from AfriFame, Promesse Kamanda, and Plaisir Muzogeye.
"I really appreciate the work of my fellow photographers. They are inspiring and I learn from them every day,” Rurangwa said.
After work, Rurangwa enjoys hanging out with his friends and watching movies.
"My favourite genre is action and my favourite TV show is The Blacklist,” he said.
Rurangwa believes that in the next 10 years, he will expand his business beyond Rwanda and across Africa in the creative sector. He aims to create a platform inspiring Rwandans to join the creative industry.
"I want to tell African stories,” Rurangwa continued, "for example, Rwandan stories have a lot to capture. I want to put together all those stories through my lens,” he said.