In a world rapidly shifting from physical workspaces to digital platforms, young people are rewriting the script of employment. Across Rwanda and much of Africa, digital hustles are becoming more than just side gigs; they’re transforming into vital lifelines.
One such young Rwandan leading this charge is Irumva Gad, the visionary founder of Kigali News Channel, a burgeoning YouTube platform that is successfully turning views into tangible value.
From viewer to content creator
Gad, in his early twenties, launched Kigali News Channel with nothing more than a smartphone and an unwavering passion for storytelling. What began as a simple attempt to document local events in Kigali has now blossomed into a reliable source of grassroots news and entertainment, particularly resonating with the youth demographic.
“I realized that many stories in our communities were not being told,” says Gad. “So I decided to become the voice that brings local stories to light.”
Today, his channel boasts thousands of subscribers, with a diverse range of videos covering everything from candid street interviews and social issues to breaking news and youth opinions on hot topics. His ability to connect with his audience through authentic, local narratives has been a key factor in his rapid growth.
Turning content into income
Gad’s entrepreneurial journey is not solely about fame; it’s about sustainable income generation. Through YouTube monetization, strategic local sponsorships, and collaborative social media brand partnerships, Kigali News Channel now generates sufficient income to cover its production costs and support Gad’s livelihood.
“At first, I didn’t believe this could make money,” he laughs, reflecting on his early skepticism. “Now, I even help other young people to start their own channels.”
Through consistent uploads, active audience engagement, and creative storytelling, Gad has meticulously built a recognizable digital brand. His journey mirrors a wider, burgeoning trend across the continent: young people leveraging free or low-cost digital platforms to carve out new economic opportunities for themselves.
A growing digital trend
According to Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation, over 60% of the youth population is online daily. This pervasive digital presence means that platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram are no longer just sources of entertainment; they have become viable income channels.
Young Rwandans are increasingly becoming freelance editors, digital marketers, social media influencers, bloggers, and e-commerce entrepreneurs. Many, like Gad, are embarking on these ventures with little to no formal training, driven instead by curiosity, consistency, and readily available internet access.
However, digital hustles come with their own distinct set of hurdles. Gad openly shares that navigating online criticism, managing data costs, and overcoming limited access to professional equipment were constant challenges in his early days.
“Sometimes you feel like giving up. But when you realize people are learning and getting inspired from your content, you push harder,” he admits. He also offers a candid warning to other aspiring content creators about the risk of burnout. “This work looks easy, but it’s not. You have to plan, shoot, edit, upload, and then repeat. It’s like a full-time job.”
When asked what advice he would impart to other young people considering a digital hustle, Gad doesn’t hesitate: “Start with what you have. Don’t wait for perfect tools. The internet has space for all of us, but consistency and originality will keep you going.”
He further encourages creators to remain deeply rooted in their purpose. “Don’t just follow trends. Tell your own story, share your reality, and be honest with your audience.”
