Junior Rumaga biography, Early life and Education

Full Name: Rumaga wa Nsekanabo
Artistic Name: Junior Rumaga
Date of Birth: July 3, 1999
Age: 25 years (as of 2024)
Nationality: Rwandan
Height: 1.75 m
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Languages Spoken: Kinyarwanda, French, English, and some Latin
Faith: Christian

Early Life and Education

Junior Rumaga was born in the Kigabiro Irubona area of Mbuye Sector, Ruhango District. He is the youngest of three children, born to Uwihaye Domithille and Yohani Bosco Pascar. Although he was born in Ruhango, his family relocated to Muhanga District during his childhood, where he grew up.

Rumaga began his education at St. Dominic School in Mbuye for his primary studies. He attended the Minor Seminary of Ikansi (Astrida) for the general curriculum (Tronc Commun) in secondary school and completed his Advanced Level studies at St. Joseph Secondary School in Gashali, specializing in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (PCB).

He later pursued higher education at the University of Rwanda (Rukara Campus), where he earned a degree in Biology and Physical Education.

Artistic Journey

Rumaga’s passion for the arts started during his childhood, where he enjoyed listening to radio dramas and dreamed of becoming either a journalist or an actor. However, his talent for poetry was discovered during his secondary school years. While in his second year of high school, a teacher’s assignment to compose a poem revealed his talent. His classmates and teachers praised his performance, which inspired him to participate in and excel at school poetry competitions.

By his fifth year of high school, Rumaga began competing in external poetry contests. Although he faced initial challenges, his talent was recognized by influential figures in the field, including renowned Rwandan poet Innocent Bahati, who became his mentor and close collaborator. This mentorship helped Rumaga refine his craft and establish himself as a poet of note.

Career Achievements

In 2019, Junior Rumaga released his first poem, Wumva Ute?, which received widespread acclaim. Known for his deep voice and innovative presentation, he captivated audiences with his unique style, blending traditional Rwandan language with modern themes. Some of his notable works include:

• Unbreakable Promise
• Nzoga
• Ivanjiri
• Umudiyasipora
• Umugore Si Umuntu (praising the courage and resilience of women)
• Ayabasore (highlighting societal issues around relationships).

Beyond poetry, Rumaga is a versatile artist. He is a songwriter, actor, author, filmmaker, and choreographer. He writes and performs plays and films, serves as a master of ceremonies, and works as a professional sports coach.

In 2023, he launched Siga Art Rwanda, an initiative aimed at helping poets develop and showcase their talents. Through Siga Art Rwanda, he supports aspiring poets in pursuing their craft and growing their skills.

Personal Life and Interests

Rumaga has a deep love for Kinyarwanda, attributing his mastery to interactions with elders and his extensive reading habits. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, playing football, and indulging in traditional Rwandan foods like sweet potatoes and milk.

He continues to inspire Rwandans and poetry enthusiasts worldwide through his innovative storytelling and commitment to preserving and promoting Rwandan culture.