Mutazimiza was named after a Ranger who died and means “he who doesn’t lose anything” in Kinyabwisha, the language spoken in and around the Gorilla Sector.

Despite the fact that Mutazimiza’s mother Lesenjina was very aggressive, Mutazimiza was very attached to her. So it was a great blow to the little gorilla when when Lesenjina disappeared in June 2007. All was not lost however as Tumaini, Mutazimiza’s older sister, took charge of her. Tumaini would carry Mutazimiza on her back to help her keep up with the group. When Tumaini got tired, she would put Mutazimiza down and then Mutazimiza would get upset and cry. Then Mivumbi would come and help out and carry Mutazimiza.

In August 2007 Dr Jacques visited Mutazimiza to check on her health. The skin on the palms of her hands and her feet was red and sensitive and she was unable to walk properly. Immediately after that visit the Mikeno Sector was occupied by rebels - the vets and Rangers were worried about her during their exile but were very relieved in their return to find that she had made a complete recovery. Her story is the inspiration for this children’s book and this website!