Denis Mukwege - Gyneacology

Known as "Dr Miracle" or "The man who repairs women", the Congolese Doctor Denis Mukwege has risen to global fame for performing reconstructive surgery on women who had been raped in the DRC's war-torn eastern region. His hospital has so far treated more than 50,000 survivors of sexual violence, while he has cemented himself as one of the world's foremost experts in his field.

Dr. Mukwege stands as a beacon of hope, a tireless advocate for the rights and well-being of women and a distinguished healer in the face of unimaginable suffering. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1955, Mukwege's journey toward becoming one of the world's foremost experts on treating survivors of sexual violence began with a childhood shaped by the principles of compassion and justice.

Dr. Mukwege's academic journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and skill. After completing his medical studies at the University of Burundi, he further honed his expertise in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Angers in France. It was here that he refined his surgical techniques, laying the foundation for his groundbreaking work in the field of gynecological reconstruction for survivors of sexual violence.

Upon returning to his homeland, Dr. Mukwege was confronted with the harsh reality of the conflict's toll on women's bodies and spirits. In 1999, he founded the Panzi Hospital in Bukavu, where he and his team provide comprehensive medical treatment, psychological support, and legal assistance to survivors of sexual violence. Through his unwavering dedication, Mukwege has restored dignity and hope to countless women who have suffered unspeakable atrocities.

In 2015 the University Hospital of Angers (CHU) signed a cooperation agreement with the Panzi Hospital to receive and train Panzi trainees in gyneacological reconstruction surgery. The Angers hospital's teams include gynaecologists renowned for their work in developing reconstructive surgery.

Global advocate against rape as a weapon of war

Dr. Mukwege's work extends far beyond the operating room. He is a vocal advocate for justice and accountability, using his platform to denounce the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and to call for the prosecution of perpetrators. In 2018, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his courageous efforts to combat sexual violence and promote gender equality and he has received numerous other awards for his work, including the UN Human Rights Prize (2008), the Right Livelihood Award (2013) and the Sakharov Prize of the European Parliament (2014). TIME magazine listed him among the world’s 100 most influential persons and the Carter Foundation named him a ‘citizen of the world.’

His achievements are not without risk. Dr. Mukwege has faced threats to his life and safety due to his outspoken activism, yet he remains undeterred in his mission to bring healing and justice to those who have been marginalized and oppressed.

Dr. Denis Mukwege's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of compassion, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through his pioneering medical work and unwavering advocacy, he has transformed the lives of countless women and inspired a global movement for peace and justice.

The University of Angers awarded Doctor Denis Mukwege the Doctor Honoris Causa title on January 23, 2018 for his courage, activism, and tireless efforts to promote peace and justice.