Junior Rumaga, a renowned figure in Rwanda’s growing poetry scene, officially released his second album titled ‘ERA’ at L*espace in Kimihurura on June 6.

"I take it as my second-born child because it being my second album means a lot to me, considering all the time and work I put into it,” he said.

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He added: "The success of ‘Mawe’, my first album, not only elevated me to a new level but also provided me with the experience and resources needed to streamline the production of my follow-up album.”

With the album costing Rwf 50,000 and available on the Siga Rwanda website, Rumaga noted that while the cost is half of the first album’s price, ‘it does not imply that it is simpler.”

He believes ‘ERA’ is far better than ‘Mawe’ because of the powerful message it conveys and the time he spent working on it (two years).

The event, attended by various celebrities such as Juno Kizigenza, Chriss Eazy, France Mpundu, Element Eleeeh, Kevin Kade, Rusine, Phil Peter, Uncle Austin, and Rocky Kimomo, among others, featured 13 new poems from ‘Era’ alongside two previously released works — ‘Rudahinyuka’ with Bahali Ruth and ‘Igisabisho’ featuring Saranda.

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This time, Rumaga has teamed up with various artistes like Kivumbi King, Kenny Sol, Papa Sava, Bill Ruzima, Iriza JD, Ismael Mwanafunzi, and Clapton Kibonge. He’s broadened his language scope by adding two French poems and one in English.

"I wanted to bring up something new by expanding my audience. If my first album was appreciated, it’s a good thing for me, and if people did not like it, this would be the right time to make an improvement which I am so sure I did,” he said.

Chriss Eazy, who attended the official release of ‘ERA’, said that Rumaga’s collaboration with different artistes from all sectors would impact youth engagement and the poetry scene in general.

"I never thought I could ever attend any poetry sessions; I would always think that poems are only for older generations. But bringing in new beats and crafting poetry in more interesting ways is really engaging.”

Mpundu, who also attended the event noticed that it was predominantly attended by the youth, indicating a positive outlook for the poetry industry.

"I am so proud of the improvement that Rumaga is making in the poetry industry, from making it engaging to taking it to more places in the world as he was recently in France, it is really nice.”

Rumaga also told The New Times that he is looking forward to doing a tour around the country and helping young poets who are looking to progress as he wants to play his role in developing poetry in Rwanda.