For nearly a decade, City Maid has stood as a pillar of Rwandan television, capturing hearts with its relatable stories, evolving cast, and deep societal themes. As the series reaches over 30 seasons and more than 300 episodes, it continues to resonate with viewers of all ages. But how has the show maintained its relevance—despite major cast changes and shifting narratives?

Created by Misago Nelly Wilson in June 2016 and produced by Afrifame Pictures Ltd., City Maid first aired on Rwanda Television (RTV). The series follows the journey of a reserved young woman from the village who moves to Kigali in search of a better life. She begins working as a maid in an urban household, navigating opportunities, struggles, and the complexity of city life.

From the start, City Maid featured talented actors and actresses including Laura Musanase, Assia Mutoni, Emmanuel Ndayizeye, Nadege Uwamwezi, Sandra Ishimwe, Mukakamanzi Beatha, Niyomwungeri Jules, Uwineza Nicole, and Hitiyise Davidson.


As one of Rwanda’s longest-running television shows, City Maid has naturally experienced cast changes over time. Some actors left willingly, others concluded their story arcs (known in Kinyarwanda as inkuru yabarangiriyeho), and some moved on due to career shifts or personal matters. These transitions are normal in long-running productions. For instance, the American drama Guiding Light aired for 72 years and underwent numerous cast changes—proof that evolving casts can sustain a show’s life.

Still, some fans struggled to accept character replacements—especially when beloved actors departed. The exits of fan-favorites such as Bahavu Jeannette (Diane), Nick Dimpoz, Sandra Ishimwe (Nadia), Laura Musanase (Nikuze—the original maid), and Zahabu (Steve) caused a stir among the audience, who had grown attached to their performances.

Many feared the show might lose its charm. But instead, City Maid proved its resilience—ushering in a new era with talented performers who both respected the show’s roots and brought fresh energy to its future.

New additions to the cast include:

Nadia from Umuturanyi

Nshimirimana Yannick, known as Rwema from Kaliza wa Kalisa and Duty

David, returning after his role as Cyusa in Kaliza wa Kalisa

Mwiyeretsi Alain Samson, known for playing Bishop Dan in The Bishop Family


These actors now work alongside seasoned stars such as:

Kimonyo Fernando (Yvan)

Lucky Murekezi (Advocate)

Sandrine Umuhoza (Nicole, the current maid)

Joseline Zaninka (Mama Steve)

Richard (MD)

Nadine (Sandra)

Ariane Vanessa (Sheilla)

The combination of new and familiar faces has reignited viewer interest and helped City Maid remain culturally relevant.

In brief interviews with the creative team behind this series and one of the former actors, they shared their thoughts on Citymaid’s evolution:

Obed Nshuti – Director Of Photography

“The departure of iconic stars negatively impacted viewership, as some fans stopped watching. But when new, already popular actors join, they bring their own audience and energy. This show is long-running—it won’t stop because of cast changes. We encourage fans to follow the story, not just the characters.”

Misago Nelly Wilson – Creator & Executive producer

“City Maid is a series deeply loved by the public. It started with a village girl facing struggles, coming to Kigali to work as a maid. As time goes on, the storyline shifts, but we always maintain the role of the maid. The first maid was Nikuze, then Nadia, and now Nicole. Each character brought something unique. The current team—Nicole, Simon, Yvan, and others—are doing a great job. Production quality has improved over time.”

Roger Niyoyita – writer & director

“Changes are inevitable—actors may change professions, move abroad, or have disagreements with production. When this happens, we adapt. It’s like rebuilding a house; it takes time for new characters to be accepted by fans. But just like previous actors earned love over time, so will the new ones. People might return depending on the story.”

“Fans should focus on the story, not just the faces. Anything is possible—even a return of former stars.”

Musafiri James – current writer

“When main actors leave, we create a spin-off—a smooth transition to new characters. City Maid is a large project, and while losing major actors is challenging, we focus on retaining the show’s uniqueness. For instance, Steve had a storyline connected to many others, but when he left, we rewrote the plot around Nicole, the new maid.”

“Although some fans focus more on characters than story, City Maid’s narrative remains beautiful and meaningful. The fact that people mark their calendars not to miss episodes shows its power. Whether it’s a character change or even death, it’s all part of storytelling—and part of life. We’re not immortal. The story goes on.”


Mukakamanzi Beatha, Known as Mama Nick – Former Main Actress

“I want to encourage fans to keep watching the show. It’s a powerful series that carries many real-life lessons. From its early days, City Maid was built on real experiences and challenges, making it meaningful and relatable.

What makes City Maid unique is the depth and intelligence of its writing. I can confidently say the show hasn’t lost its uniqueness—if it had, people wouldn’t still love and watch it today. When I was part of the production, I saw firsthand how every storyline developed with care, each chapter holding important messages not just for Rwandans, but for anyone watching. Those teachings are still there—and they will continue to be part of City Maid.”

The maid at the center of it all

Throughout all the changes, the heart of City Maid has always remained the same: the story of the maid. Three different actresses have taken on this central role:

Laura Musanase as Nikuze – the original maid whose journey started it all

Sandra Ishimwe as Nadia – who carried the torch in the middle years

Sandrine Umuhoza as Nicole – the current maid and emotional anchor of the series


Each woman brought depth, emotion, and a unique portrayal to the character, while preserving the core theme of resilience and transformation.


City Maid is more than a TV show—it’s a mirror of Rwandan society. It tackles themes of migration, gender roles, inequality, ambition, and community. The show has launched careers, inspired fans, and adapted to generational shifts in viewership.

As the cast evolves and the seasons unfold, one truth remains: the strength of City Maid lies in its storytelling. The faces may change, but the story lives on.


“We might miss Nikuze or Diane, but the story still feels like home,” one fan shared. “It’s part of our lives now.”


To the viewers: keep watching. Keep supporting. Because City Maid is worth it.