Eric Eugene Murangwa’s Story
When the Genocide against the Tutsis in Rwanda began in April 1994, Eric Eugene Murangwa, a Tutsi footballer at one of the country’s top clubs, found himself in extreme danger. Despite being a target, he was protected by a member of the Interahamwe, a notorious group responsible for killing hundreds of thousands.
Life as a Football Star
In the early 1990s, Murangwa was a star player for Rayon Sports in Kigali. His status as a well-known footballer played a crucial role in saving his life multiple times during the 100-day genocide, which resulted in the deaths of over 800,000 people, predominantly Tutsis.
Founding the Ishami Foundation
His experiences during the genocide inspired him to establish the Ishami Foundation, an organization dedicated to using the power of sport to promote tolerance and peace.
The Start of the Genocide
On the day before the killings began, Murangwa and his friends were unaware of the impending horror. The events that followed changed his life forever.
Surviving with Help
One key figure in Murangwa’s survival was Jean-Marie Vianney Mudahinyuka, also known as Zuzu, a member of the Interahamwe and a board member of the football club. Zuzu’s protection and assistance were instrumental in ensuring Murangwa’s safety during the darkest days of the genocide.
Hope for the Future
Despite the trauma he endured, Murangwa now sees hope in Rwanda’s progress towards peace and reconciliation. He acknowledges the challenges that still exist but remains optimistic about the younger generation’s potential to build a better future for the country.