In cinema, perfection is pursued through countless retakes—each shot a step closer to excellence. In life, Aboubakar NGABONZIZA applied the same principle to discover his true calling: sound.
Just as filmmakers shoot multiple takes or shift locations to find the perfect frame, Aboubakar explored different roles in the film industry until he found where he truly belonged. Today, he is one of Rwanda’s most respected sound recordists—a role vital to every great film.
A sound recordist is responsible for capturing clean, high-quality audio during production. Using tools like boom mics and wireless microphones, they record dialogue, ambient noise, and any essential on-set sound. The goal is to ensure the final film sounds as real and immersive as it looks. And that’s exactly what Aboubakar NGABONZIZA does best.
Born in Ngororero, Rwanda, 40-year-old Aboubakar is now a married man with a deep passion for cinema. But filmmaking wasn’t always the plan.
“As a kid, I dreamed of being a soldier,” he recalled. “But growing up and exploring other paths changed that.”
His journey into the Rwandan cinema industry began at Almond tree filme ltd in 2007, where he started out as a runner—an entry-level position that involves handling basic tasks on set. Over time, he moved up to become a Director of Photography (DOP), working mainly on weddings and documentaries. But it still wasn’t the right fit.
“I eventually stopped working as a DOP and became a sound man,” he said. “That’s when I truly found where I belong.”
Aboubakar has worked on a wide range of notable Rwandan productions, including:
Citymaid
Ishusho ya Papa
Ejo Sikera
Igeno Ryanjye
The Bishop Family
Umutoma by John Kwezi
Kaliza wa Kalisa
Among all these, one project stands out:
“Citymaid is my favorite,” he said. “I’ve worked on it since 2016. It gave me the name I have now.”
Citymaid became a household name in Rwanda, and Aboubakar’s attention to detail helped bring the show’s emotions, tensions, and storytelling to life through sound.
Success, however, did not come without hardship.
“There was a time I worked for someone who promised to pay me. I gave him the card with the sound recordings, but after we parted ways, he blocked me and never paid,” he said.
It wasn’t just a financial loss—it was a betrayal.
“It wasn’t just the money. It shook my trust in people,” he admitted.
Despite the setback, Aboubakar kept going, fueled by passion and integrity.
Aboubakar credits filmmaker John Kwezi with introducing him to the industry and names MISAGO Nelly Wilson among those who supported him throughout his career.
His secret to growth? Honesty and respect.
“Being honest pushes you to deliver excellent work. You must respect your bosses and everyone you work with,” he shared.
He also emphasized that he didn’t join cinema for the money.
“I joined because of passion. And the more I worked, the more I fell in love with it.”
To young people interested in following his path, his message is clear:
“Filmmaking requires honesty and commitment. Always deliver when you have a job.”
Aboubakar isn’t done yet. His future goals go beyond just improving his craft—he wants to give back.
“I want to start a school that teaches sound production. I also plan to buy better sound equipment so I can record even higher-quality audio. That will lead to the best productions.”
From the boy who once dreamed of wearing a soldier’s uniform to the man who now captures the soul of Rwandan cinema through sound, Aboubakar NGABONZIZA is proof that passion, honesty, and perseverance can lead you to where you truly belong.
