Farewell, Ndakasi – The Heroine of the Congo Forest 

On September 26, 2021, the world said goodbye to Ndakasi, the beloved mountain gorilla of Virunga National Park. Born in 2007, Ndakasi’s life was one of remarkable resilience and profound connection. She passed away at the age of 14, marking the end of a deeply moving journey that touched hearts around the world.

Ndakasi’s story began in tragedy. As an orphan, her family was killed by poachers, and she was left vulnerable and alone. But fate brought her to the loving care of the park’s dedicated rangers, who raised her with devotion, ensuring she felt safe and cherished. Through the years, Ndakasi grew into an iconic symbol of hope and compassion, captivating those who cared for her and the millions who learned of her journey.

In her final moments, Ndakasi passed away in the arms of her lifelong friend and caretaker, André Bauma. This image, tender and heartbreaking, resonated deeply with people worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the unbreakable bond that can exist between humans and animals. The love, compassion, and care that André provided her were evident in the quiet final moments they shared — an act of kindness that transcends species and speaks to the very heart of empathy.

Though Ndakasi is no longer with us, her legacy endures. She will forever be a symbol of the importance of protecting wildlife, of understanding the profound connections we share with all living beings on this planet, and of the need to protect these precious creatures for generations to come.

Her story will continue to inspire us all to be kinder, more compassionate, and more mindful of our responsibility to care for the world around us.