The festival officiallyA opened on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Norrsken Kigali, bringing together celebrated comedians including Kigingi from Burundi, Rusine Patrick, Prince Nshizirungu, and several others.
A Night of Endless Laughter

The show host, Babou, kept the audience in stitches, mixing light-hearted jokes with witty social commentary. At one point, he joked about how society treats age differently, saying that when someone survives an accident at 30, people say they were “still young,” but if they’re single at 30, the same people start asking why they haven’t introduced a fiancée yet.
Comedian Prince Nshizirungu followed with jokes about the struggles of young men trying to convince their parents they’re ready for marriage  his playful delivery sending waves of laughter through the audience.

Rusine and Kigingi Steal the Spotlight

Rwanda’s comedy star Rusine Patrick gave a hilarious performance while playing the role of a drunk man. With perfect timing, he teased about having a beautiful wife but joked that if he were ever to cheat, it would have to be with an equally beautiful woman  adding, to everyone’s amusement, that “maybe I’ll find her in Burundi.”
Meanwhile, Kigingi, one of Burundi’s most beloved comedians, had the crowd roaring with laughter as he mimicked how difficult it can be for adults to learn French later in life. His expressive delivery and quick wit reminded everyone why he’s a regional favorite.

A Pan-African Comedy Line-Up

The Caravane du Rire isn’t just a Rwandan affair  it’s a celebration of African humor. This year’s edition features comedians from across the continent, including Duga Mutai (Kenya), Cotilda and Uncle Mo (Uganda), Bappa Oumar (Guinea), and Alain Essongo (DR Congo), alongside Rwanda’s own stars Rusine Patrick, Michael Sengazi, Babou Joe, Herve Kimenyi, Muhinde, and Prince Nshizirungu.
After its opening in Kigali, the festival will continue at the Institut Français du Rwanda from October 23–24, and conclude at Kigali Universe on October 30–31, 2025.

Tickets and Access

Tickets for the shows are priced between 10,000 and 15,000 Rwandan Francs, while those bought at the door go for 20,000 Frw. Festival passes sold earlier ranged from 50,000 to 75,000 Frw, though demand has since pushed the price up to 100,000 Frw.
Celebrating Humor and Connection
More than just a series of comedy nights, Caravane du Rire is a platform that unites African comedians and audiences through shared laughter, cultural expression, and creativity. It’s proof that comedy is not only entertainment  it’s a bridge that connects people, heals hearts, and celebrates the joy of being African.