Damas Gisimba, a courageous figure who saved the lives of numerous individuals during the devastating genocide in Rwanda, passed away at the age of 61. Gisimba, along with his brother, operated an orphanage that became a sanctuary for many amidst the genocide, during which approximately 800,000 people were killed, The Guardian reports.
The horrific events unfolded on April 6, 1994, when a plane carrying Rwandan President Juvenal Habyarimana was shot down, and Tutsi rebels were falsely accused of his assassination. In a matter of hours, the capital city of Kigali was besieged, and Hutu forces initiated the ruthless slaughter of Tutsi families. The following day, desperate individuals sought refuge at Gisimba's orphanage. Over the course of three months, Gisimba heroically shielded more than 400 children and adults, concealing them in attics, basements, and rooms.
"I owe my life and the lives of my family to Damas Gisimba. During the 1994 genocide, we sought shelter at his orphanage. He welcomed us and saved us," - expressed one witness who survived the genocide.
Despite daunting challenges, Gisimba managed to sustain the hidden individuals by securing food shipments from the Red Cross and skillfully negotiating with the police to safeguard the orphanage. In a remarkable act of compassion, Gisimba even rescued two pregnant women from a mass grave located near the premises.
Following the genocide, orphaned children continued to flock to the orphanage, seeking assistance. Despite financial hardships, Gisimba provided them with care, nourishment, and educational opportunities.
In recognition of his extraordinary efforts during the genocide, Gisimba was honored with the Order of Umuriniz (Protector) by the President of Rwanda.
During his later years, Gisimba battled hypertension and kidney problems. The revered Rwandan figure passed away on June 11 at his residence in Kigali, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and selflessness.
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