Ayivugwe Kabemba founded Wekify from a life where language, memory, and community were things you keep when you have to leave home — and he is still the first user of the platforms he ships.
01
From Congo-Kinshasa to Burundi
Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I fled the war-torn region with my family, seeking safety in Burundi. This experience of displacement and cultural adaptation deeply influenced my understanding of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and language.
02
Life in the refugee camp
Growing up in a refugee camp taught me the value of community and the power of shared experiences. It was here that I first recognized how technology could be used to preserve and share our stories, traditions, and language.
03
Education and growth
At Ngozi University, I discovered my passion for technology and its potential to bridge cultural gaps. The ARCIN project became my first step in combining technology with cultural preservation, setting the foundation for what would become Wekify LLC.
04
Building and using at the same time
Kifuliiru work never waited for the other products to finish. Ayivugwe builds the platforms and uses them: writing conversations and other language content as the main user. Wenodify is one of several tools that help create that content. Peacae PM supports development of the language platforms. The tracks run together.
2014
The first vision
Created the initial vision document while studying at Ngozi University in Burundi. This project, called Agence pour le Renforcement des Connaissances Intellectuelles et Naturelles (ARCIN), planted the seeds for future developments.
2015
Technical journey begins
Received a first laptop from a twin brother. Worked on BujaSAT, a mobile app for a Bujumbura city guide, while facing technical challenges and learning mobile development from scratch.
2017
Professional growth
Secured a first software development job and successfully presented the BujaSAT project, marking the beginning of professional growth.
2018–2019
Memory preservation
Inspired by personal loss, created Nikumbuke Weka Kumbukumbu (Remember Keep Records), later renamed to Weka Gasorwe, focusing on preserving memories of the refugee camp community.
2020
Language preservation vision
Discovered the absence of Ibufuliiru information online, leading to the Ibufuliiru website and the broader vision of language preservation.
2025
Wekify LLC
Founded Wekify LLC, combining the Swahili word Weka (to keep) with the -ify suffix, representing a commitment to preserving linguistic and cultural heritage.