Fred Mfuranzima, a 27-year-old poet from Huye district, exemplifies the power of poetry to inspire and advocate for peace. His work, deeply rooted in the themes of hope and reconciliation, is a testament to the role of art in healing and unifying post-genocide societies in the African Great Lakes Region. Mfuranzima’s poetry, including pieces like “My Shame,” “Never Again,” and “Endless Music,” delves into the complexities of identity and the human experience in Rwanda’s journey toward recovery. His work not only reflects the struggles of a nation but also serves as a beacon of hope and unity, demonstrating the power of the written word in a healing society. ALSO READ: Tracing the evolution of modern poetry in Rwanda In 2019, Fred Mfuranzima embarked on a mission to weave peace into the fabric of his community. By joining the Peace Building Institute and diving into conflict management courses, he began his quest to foster harmony in the Great Lakes Region. Mfuranzima, a celebrated poet and author, has penned several acclaimed poetry collections, including “Rwanda is Poetry,” “The Broken,” “Dreams to Find Another World,” and “A Sister's Left Shoe.” Each work reflects his deep commitment to exploring themes of identity, reconciliation, and the human experience. ALSO READ: How poetry serves as a healing tool for mental issues In 2020, he founded Imfura Heritage, a dynamic platform designed to uplift Rwandan art, literature, and peace initiatives. Imfura Heritage also hosts the annual Imfura Heritage Festival, a vibrant celebration of young artistic talent from the Great Lakes Region that champions peace and unity. Mfuranzima's efforts have garnered support from influential partners, including the Israel and Germany Embassies in Rwanda, the Kigali Public Library, the European Union in Rwanda, and NGOs like Never Again Rwanda. My commitment to peace goes beyond my poetry. I’ve had the opportunity to perform at events like the Move Afrika Concert with Global Citizen, the Elman Peace Forum, and the Holocaust Remembrance event. My poem 'Never Again,' recited at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, aims to inspire unity against genocide and encourage a peaceful future, he told The New Times. As the founder of the DID Poetry Slam, Mfuranzima champions art as a catalyst for social change, offering an immersive platform where poets unite to create impactful, thought-provoking experiences. His collections, including “The Lonely Soul,” and “Beyond Borders of Chuki,” have cemented his reputation as a leading voice in the poetry world. My journey is a testament to art's power to bridge divides and foster understanding, Mfuranzima says. Through my work, I strive to transcend borders and unite audiences through the shared experience of the human spirit.” In 2023, Fred Mfuranzima used his poem and song “Bi Yom HaShoah” to address diplomats at an event organized by Aegis Trust, a British NGO focused on preventing genocide, in collaboration with the United Nations and other partners. “My message at the event highlighted the importance of working together to build peace through peaceful means. By addressing issues like poverty and ensuring justice, we can promote fairness and harmony in our communities,” Mfuranzima explained. In a world often marked by conflict, Mfuranzima hopes his poetry will serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a catalyst for positive change. You can find the artist’s poems at Kigali Libraries or read them digitally on Booksie, an online book platform.
