This is an exuberant, one-of-a-kind, 200-page, praise-poem artists’ book created for a work of video art that doubles as a music video for a track by internationally recognized Egyptian singer/activist Ramy Essam in memory of Rwandan singer/songwriter and human rights activist Kizito Mihigo.

Kizito Mihigo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kizito_Mihigo

Kizito Mihigo (25 July 1981 – 17 February 2020) was a Rwandan gospel singer, songwriter, organist, composer of sacred music, television presenter, genocide survivor, peace maker and peace and reconciliation activist. Kizito was an iconic activist who dedicated his life to healing the souls of his fellow genocide survivors and rebuilding unity and reconciliation in Rwanda. According to Kisito’s words, published on Kizitomihigo.com, he claimed, “The objective of my works is to console and strengthen the wounded hearts, singing peace and forgiveness.” His ultimate performance in healing and Peacebuilding started in 2010 when he created the Kizito Mihigo Peace Foundation, a non-profit organization devoted to his cause. – Wikipedia

In April 2014, after releasing a critical song challenging the official narrative of the Rwandan genocide, Mihigo was arrested and charged with planning to oust the government. In February 2015, he was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment after being convicted of conspiracy against the government of President Paul Kagame.[5] Although having been released from Mageragere Prison by presidential grace in September 2018,Mihigo was rearrested on 13 February 2020 and died in custody on 17 February, under suspicious circumstances.

Ramy Essam

Rock artist and human rights defender Ramy Essam is considered to be one of the loudest voices of today. His resilient journey from the hub of the Egyptian revolution to the international stages has included viral hits and awards as well as moments of struggle. With his background in being the voice of the streets of his country, Ramy today stands for social justice and human rights worldwide. Ramy’s music is rock with Egyptian flavor and hiphop influences, inspired by hard rock and grunge. He sings in both Egyptian Arabic and English. Said to be a beacon of uncommon bravery in the Middle East, Ramy Essam exploded into international fame in the Egyptian revolution starting in 2011 as his songs spread like wildfire among the demonstrators. During the height of the uprising, Ramy performed in front of hundres of thousands of people in Tahrir Square and became the voice of the revolution. His song Irhal demanding resignation of then-ruler Hosni Mubarak is referred to as the real anthem of the revolution. Irhal was listed as #3 Song That Changed History by Time Out Magazine. – https://www.ramyessam.com/

In the revolution I was born again. The struggle became the purpose of my life. -Ramy Essam