Tharcisse Gatwa is best known to the wider public as the father of acclaimed Rwandan-Scottish actor Ncuti Gatwa. Still, his own life story is one of remarkable depth, resilience, and quiet influence. An academic, journalist, and former Christian minister, Tharcisse has lived through some of the most defining moments of modern African and European history. From surviving the Rwandan genocide to rebuilding a life in Scotland and later relocating to Cameroon for professional reasons, his journey reflects sacrifice, conviction, and an enduring commitment to education, ethics, and faith.
Though he has never sought celebrity status, Tharcisse Gatwa’s values, intellect, and perseverance have played a profound role in shaping the man his son has become. Behind the success of one of Britain’s most recognisable actors stands a father whose own achievements and struggles deserve recognition in their own right.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Tharcisse Gatwa |
| Date of Birth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Age (as of 2025) | Not publicly disclosed |
| Birthplace | Karongi District, Rwanda |
| Nationality | Rwandan |
| Height | Not publicly documented |
| Hair Colour | Not publicly documented |
| Eye Colour | Not publicly documented |
| Education | PhD in Theology and Christian Ethics, University of Edinburgh |
| Profession | Academic, journalist, researcher, former Christian minister |
| Spouse | Josephine Gatwa |
| Children | Three children, including actor Ncuti Gatwa |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Not publicly known; primarily academic and professional earnings |
| Known For | Academic work, journalism, refugee advocacy, and being the father of Ncuti Gatwa |
Early Life and Education
Tharcisse Gatwa was born and raised in the Karongi District of western Rwanda, an area known for its rolling hills, strong community traditions and deep Christian influence. Growing up in a country where faith, family, and education were central pillars of daily life, Tharcisse developed an early interest in moral philosophy, theology, and social justice.
From a young age, he showed a natural inclination towards learning and leadership. Education was viewed not simply as a personal achievement but as a responsibility to the wider community. This belief would later guide many of his life choices. His early schooling in Rwanda exposed him to both the richness of African Christian traditions and the challenges faced by post-colonial societies striving for stability and ethical governance.
As a young man, Tharcisse pursued theological studies, eventually leading him beyond Rwanda’s borders. His academic curiosity and commitment to ethical inquiry took him to the United Kingdom, where he enrolled at the University of Edinburgh. There, he completed a PhD in Theology and Christian Ethics, focusing on the role of faith institutions in social transformation and moral leadership.
Studying in Scotland broadened his worldview but also introduced him to the realities of racial inequality within academic spaces, an experience that would later shape major decisions in his life.
Personal and Family Life
Tharcisse Gatwa is married to Josephine Gatwa, with whom he shares a long and enduring partnership. Together, they built a family grounded in faith, discipline, and mutual respect. The couple has three children: Sabano (born in 1987), Sangano (born in 1988), and Ncuti Gatwa (born in 1992).
Family life for the Gatwas has never been ordinary. In May 1994, during the outbreak of the Rwandan genocide, Tharcisse and Josephine were forced to flee their homeland with their young children. The decision to leave Rwanda was one of survival, marked by fear, uncertainty, and immense emotional pain.
After a period of displacement, the family found refuge in Scotland, initially settling in Edinburgh before later moving to Dunfermline. Scotland became not just a place of safety but a new home where the Gatwas rebuilt their lives from the ground up.
Despite the trauma of displacement, Tharcisse worked tirelessly to provide stability for his children. Education, structure, and moral grounding were prioritised, and his home encouraged discussion, reading, and reflection. These values would deeply influence Ncuti Gatwa’s sense of responsibility and ambition.
Career Journey
Tharcisse Gatwa’s professional life has been defined by intellectual rigour and service. Early in his career, he worked as a Christian minister, combining pastoral responsibilities with community engagement. His ministry focused on ethics, reconciliation, and the social role of the church, themes that would remain central throughout his career.
Alongside ministry, Tharcisse established himself as a journalist and academic researcher. He contributed to discussions on African theology, ethics, and independent church movements, gaining recognition within scholarly and faith-based circles.
One of his most notable professional roles was with the Organization of African Independent Churches (OAIC), where he served as a director and researcher. In this position, he examined how indigenous African churches addressed social justice, education, and community development, often operating independently of Western religious structures.
Despite holding a PhD from a prestigious university, Tharcisse faced persistent barriers within the UK academic system. He later spoke openly about the difficulties of securing stable academic work as a Black professor in Britain. These challenges ultimately led to a pivotal decision.
To continue meaningful professional work and provide for his family, Tharcisse relocated to Cameroon. This move meant living away from his wife and children for extended periods, a sacrifice that his son Ncuti has publicly described as “amazing” and deeply formative.
Life Challenges and Turning Points
Few lives are shaped without hardship, and Tharcisse Gatwa’s journey includes several defining struggles. The most traumatic was surviving the Rwandan genocide, an event that claimed the lives of over 800,000 people and left lasting scars on survivors and the diaspora alike.
Starting over in a new country presented additional challenges. As refugees in Scotland, the Gatwa family faced cultural displacement, financial uncertainty, and the emotional weight of loss. Tharcisse responded not with bitterness but with action.
Soon after arriving in Scotland, he worked with the National Bible Society of Scotland to raise over £50,000 for refugee camps in Rwanda. This effort reflected his belief that survival carried a moral obligation to help others still suffering.
Another significant turning point was his decision to leave the UK for Cameroon. Professionally necessary but personally painful, this move highlighted systemic inequalities while underscoring his dedication to scholarship and service.
Current Life and Career
Today, Tharcisse Gatwa continues to live a largely private life, focused on academic research, writing, and community engagement. While he no longer holds public roles, his influence remains strong within academic and faith networks, particularly in Africa.
He does not maintain a public social media presence and has largely avoided the spotlight, even as his son’s fame has grown internationally. Instead, he prefers a life of reflection, intellectual pursuit, and quiet contribution.
Tharcisse remains deeply proud of his children’s achievements, particularly Ncuti’s success on the global stage when Ncuti was announced as the Fifteenth Doctor in Doctor Who. Tharcisse publicly expressed his pride, recognising not only the career milestone but the broader cultural significance of the role.
Net Worth and Financial Status
Tharcisse Gatwa’s net worth is not publicly documented and is believed to be modest. His career has been rooted in academia, journalism, and non-profit work rather than commercial ventures. His primary sources of income have included academic research roles, teaching, writing, and consultancy within faith-based organisations.
Rather than material wealth, Tharcisse’s life reflects a different measure of success, defined by intellectual contribution, moral integrity, and the achievements of the next generation.
Public Image and Media Presence
Although not a public figure in the traditional sense, Tharcisse Gatwa is widely respected by those familiar with his work and story. Media portrayals often describe him as principled, thoughtful, and quietly resilient.
Through interviews given by Ncuti Gatwa, the public has come to see Tharcisse as a devoted father and role model. His emphasis on discipline, education, and responsibility has been cited as a cornerstone of his son’s character.
Rather than seeking recognition, Tharcisse’s public image is one of dignity and substance, a man whose influence is felt more through actions than appearances.
Fun Facts and Anecdotes
Despite his serious academic background, Tharcisse is known within his family as a warm and reflective presence. He encouraged open discussion at home, often engaging his children in debates about ethics, faith, and world affairs.
Ncuti has spoken fondly of his parents’ work ethic, noting that their sacrifices made him deeply aware of responsibility from a young age. Tharcisse’s decision to live apart from his family for work is often cited as one of the most powerful examples of parental dedication in Ncuti’s life.
Another lesser-known fact is that Tharcisse’s fundraising work for Rwanda began almost immediately after he arrived in Scotland, demonstrating an extraordinary capacity to help others even as he rebuilt his own life.
Conclusion
Tharcisse Gatwa’s story is one of intellect, faith, and perseverance in the face of extraordinary adversity. From surviving genocide to navigating systemic barriers in academia, his journey reflects moral courage and unwavering commitment to purpose.
While the world celebrates Ncuti Gatwa’s success on screen, it is important to recognise the foundation laid by a father who embodied resilience, sacrifice, and ethical conviction. Tharcisse Gatwa may live outside the spotlight, but his legacy is deeply woven into the lives he has shaped and the values he has passed on.
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(FAQs)
Who is Tharcisse Gatwa?
Tharcisse Gatwa is a Rwandan academic, journalist, and former Christian minister, best known as the father of actor Ncuti Gatwa.
When did Tharcisse Gatwa move to Scotland?
He arrived in Scotland in May 1994 after fleeing the Rwandan genocide with his wife and children.
Does Tharcisse Gatwa have children?
Yes, he has three children: Sabano, Sangano, and Ncuti Gatwa.
What is Tharcisse Gatwa’s profession now?
He continues to engage in academic research, writing, and community-focused intellectual work, largely outside the public eye.
What is Tharcisse Gatwa’s net worth?
His net worth is not publicly known and is believed to be modest, reflecting a career focused on academia and service rather than commercial pursuits.