In Memoriam: Damas Gisimba

Damas Gisimba and EIHR Executive Director Kate English observe Umuganda at the Gisimba Memorial Center, 2014. #EIHRLearns   #EIHRRemembers

With great sadness, we share that Damas Gisimba, rescuer during the genocide in Rwanda, has passed away at the age of 61. Mr. Gisimba’s actions were the subject of the USHMM documentary Defying Genocide, inspiring teachers worldwide. An esteemed presenter at EIHR workshops, he was a long-time friend of the EIHR community. 

Aimable Mpayimana, EIHR’s Director of Education in Rwanda, remembers him this way: 

“Gisimba was an inspiration to many young people through his courage and heroism. He risked his life during the genocide and saved several lives without any weapons. He became a living example of how ordinary people make a difference and do extraordinary things amidst threats and unimaginable crises.” 

Learn more about Mr. Gisimba and his life’s work at the Gisimba Memorial Centre.

Damas Gisimba (center) at an EIHR workshop with EIHR’s Executive Director Kate English and Director of Education in Rwanda Aimable Mpayimana at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, 2020.

Damas Gisimba talks to Rwandan teachers at an EIHR workshop at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, 2014.