Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe has described the death of Dafroza Mukarumongi Gauthier as a great loss to Rwanda, justice and humanity, saying her legacy will continue to serve as an example for present and future generations.
Dafroza, who worked alongside her husband, Alain Gauthier, for many years to help bring people suspected of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to justice, died following an illness.
In a message posted on X on October 3, 2026, Nduhungirehe said Dafroza’s work would continue to be remembered and serve as a foundation for advancing the cause to which she had dedicated herself.
He said, “It is a great loss to Rwanda, to justice and to all humanity. Dafroza Gauthier’s legacy will always live on in our memories and in our actions, serving as a source of pride for the present generation and an example for future generations.”
Nduhungirehe concluded by wishing Dafroza Gauthier eternal rest. He shared the message alongside a statement by Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement Dr Jean Damascène Bizimana, who expressed his grief over her death and conveyed his condolences to her husband.
The Government of Rwanda also extended its condolences to Alain Gauthier, his family, friends and all those who regarded Dafroza’s work as an example.
In a statement, the government commended her dedication to gathering evidence and seeking justice for those responsible for the Genocide against the Tutsi.
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Dafroza and Alain Gauthier’s Pursuit of Justice
Dafroza and her husband began their campaign to seek justice for Genocide victims in 1996. In 2001, they founded the Collectif des parties civiles pour le Rwanda (CPCR), an organisation focused on pursuing genocide suspects living in France.
Their work involved locating suspects, travelling to Rwanda to collect evidence from places where crimes were committed, speaking with survivors and prisoners, and preparing case files for submission to courts.
Dafroza also played a key role in translating Kinyarwanda documents used in court proceedings into French. Her knowledge of Rwanda’s history and the Kinyarwanda language helped the couple collect and interpret evidence.
Recognition for Their Contribution
On November 18, 2017, President Paul Kagame awarded Dafroza and her husband the Umurinzi w’Igihango medal in recognition of their contribution.
The medal is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding efforts in strengthening friendship and cooperation between Rwanda and other countries, as well as promoting Rwanda and Rwandans internationally.
