Rwandan actor, producer, and director Aime Gad is steadily becoming one of the most promising new voices in African cinema, earning attention for his emotionally charged performances and bold approach to storytelling across action, romance, and drama.
Born and raised in the vibrant Kigali neighbourhood of Kimironko, Aime Gad — whose family name Habarurema translates to “only God in all” — has quickly transformed passion into a fast-rising career defined by ambition, versatility, and cinematic vision.
The youngest of three children of Habarurema Jonas and Uwigiriye Esperance, Gad combines technical expertise with artistic depth, backed by a degree in filmmaking and production.
Since launching his professional journey in 2023, Gad has built momentum through appearances in productions such as The Forest and My Heart, alongside several short films that showcased both his physical intensity and emotional range.
His role in The Forest highlighted his commanding presence in action-driven storytelling, while My Heart revealed a more romantic and charismatic side that resonated with audiences.
Gad’s impact extends far beyond acting
As a producer and director, he has already spearheaded projects including Shadows, Hidden, and Drive or Die — films recognized for blending suspense, romance, and psychological tension with deeply human themes.
His creative style often explores the emotional stakes behind high-intensity narratives, positioning him among a new generation of African filmmakers pushing boundaries in storytelling.
In 2025, Gad’s growing influence reached an international level when he received the Best MVAA Breakout Actor of the Year Award in Nigeria, a recognition that solidified his emergence on the continental stage and introduced his work to a wider African audience.
“I want to tell stories that make people feel something real — stories that connect emotion, struggle, love, and survival in ways audiences everywhere can understand,” Aime Gad said.
“Cinema has the power to unite cultures, and I want my work to represent Rwanda while speaking to the world.”
Industry observers say Gad’s rapid rise reflects a broader evolution within Rwanda’s creative sector, where young film makers are increasingly gaining continental recognition for original storytelling and modern cinematic approaches.
With a growing portfolio and a vision that bridges local authenticity with global appeal, Aime Gad continues to establish himself not only as an actor, but as a creative force determined to shape the future of African film.
