Dian Fossey, widely known as “Nyiramacibiri” in Rwanda, was a pioneering conservationist whose dedication to mountain gorillas left a lasting impact. An American primatologist, she arrived in Volcanoes National Park in 1967 when gorilla populations were severely threatened by poaching. Over 18 years, she meticulously studied their behaviors, social structures, and emotional expressions, becoming a passionate advocate for their protection.
On December 27, 1985, Fossey was found brutally murdered in her cabin at the Karisoke Research Center. Her body bore multiple wounds from a machete, indicating a violent attack. Surprisingly, robbery was ruled out as a motive since her cash, passport, and handgun remained untouched. Investigators discovered footprints of two individuals outside her cabin and a hole cut into the wall, adding to the mystery surrounding her death.
Rwandan authorities quickly detained several of her staff members, including Emmanuel Rwelekana, a former guide whom she had previously dismissed due to conflicts. While most of the detainees were released the following day, Rwelekana remained in custody. Nine months later, on September 29, 1986, just before U.S. Embassy officials were scheduled to question him, the Rwandan government announced his death in prison, allegedly by hanging. His family never received his body, fueling suspicions about the true circumstances of his demise.
Donata Mukarwego, Rwelekana’s daughter, has continued to question the official account, stating that her family never received confirmation of his death. She recalls that her father was at home when he heard of Fossey’s murder, after which he left hurriedly, never to return. The sudden arrest and subsequent death of her father devastated the family, especially as they were left without clear answers or closure.
Jonas Nubaha, a former employee at Karisoke, described Fossey as a dedicated conservationist who treated her staff and the local community with kindness. She often celebrated holidays with them, providing food and clothing for their families. Despite her deep love for gorillas, Fossey maintained strict rules regarding their interaction, ensuring their protection from harm.
Fossey’s impact extended beyond conservation. Her dedication to protecting gorillas made her a revered figure, and memorials in her honor continue to this day. However, her confrontational stance against poaching and potential disagreements with local and foreign authorities may have led to her tragic end. Some speculate that disputes over gorilla tourism, rather than pure conservation, created tensions that ultimately contributed to her murder.
The question of whether Rwelekana was falsely accused remains unresolved. Some believe his prior conflicts with Fossey made him a scapegoat, while others suspect a broader conspiracy involving powerful entities opposed to her conservation efforts. Fidèle Uwimana, another former Karisoke staff member, acknowledged that while Rwelekana had disputes with Fossey, no concrete evidence linked him to her murder. He also mentioned that meetings between Fossey and foreign collaborators before her death could indicate other possibilities.
Fossey was laid to rest at Karisoke among the gorillas she fought to protect. Her grave remains a place of remembrance, symbolizing her unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation. Her life and mysterious death continue to intrigue and inspire, leaving unanswered questions about the true events surrounding her tragic demise.
