In just three years, ZACU TV has transformed Rwanda’s entertainment scene, turning Kinyarwanda fiction into household favorites while bringing local stories to international audiences. The channel celebrated its third anniversary with a press conference at Zaria Court, drawing filmmakers, journalists, and industry partners to mark the milestone.
At the event, ZACU Entertainment Managing Director Wilson Misago highlighted the channel’s remarkable growth. He was joined by Programming Director Cedric Pierre Louis and Canal+ Rwanda Managing Director Sophie Tchatchoua. Household viewership surged by 173% between August 2024 and August 2025, reflecting the rising demand for Rwandan storytelling.
A major announcement during the press conference was ZACU TV’s partnership with RwandAir, a move that will bring Rwandan films to international travelers across the airline’s network. Under the collaboration, selected films will be showcased on in-flight entertainment systems and digital lounges, giving passengers a chance to experience Rwanda’s rich storytelling. According to ZACU Managing Director Wilson Misago, the partnership is designed to increase the global visibility of local filmmakers and actors, while also positioning Rwandan cinema on the international stage. Sophie Tchatchoua, Managing Director of Canal+ Rwanda, described the initiative as “a milestone for the country’s creative industry, connecting local talent with audiences beyond our borders.”
Beyond the numbers, ZACU’s impact is shaping Rwanda’s creative industry. Its investments are fueling local productions, creating jobs, and developing the skills of actors, writers, and crew members. By channeling funding directly into film projects, ZACU is strengthening the creative ecosystem and supporting sustainable growth for the local industry.
The channel also unveiled its upcoming slate of productions. Returning favorites include new seasons of Seburikoko and the continuation of Hurts Harder. Fresh titles set to debut include What a Day! by Niyitegaka Gratien, Ibyahishuwe by Niyoyitaroger, Rukuruzi, co-produced by Mutuyimana Eric Ibrahim, and Karira, co-written by Yuhi Amuli and Cedric Pierre Louis. Other anticipated projects include the festive The Bridge of Christmas, the high school musical Red Flag by Yves Mizero Wayeem, the gripping drama The Last Confession, and Hands of Hope, scheduled to premiere on March 8, 2026, in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Reflecting on the channel’s achievements, Misago credited ZACU’s teams, co-producers, and partners for their dedication. He stressed that this milestone is just the beginning of a new era for Rwandan cinema, with ZACU poised to carry local storytelling onto the global stage.
With soaring viewership, international exposure through RwandAir, and an expanding role in job creation and talent development, ZACU TV’s third anniversary was more than a celebration — it was a signal of Rwanda’s growing presence on the global entertainment map.
