A humble man in Panzi, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, who lives in a hospital surrounded by barbed wire, and guarded 24/7 by UN Guards protecting him from assassination attempts, has received his due recognition. Dr. Denis Mukwege received the Nobel Peace Prize for his on-going advocacy and medical treatment of Congolese women who have suffered appalling atrocities in a war that uses violence against women as a strategy.
In an October 5th, 2018 New York Times feature covering the Nobel Prize, Dr. Mukwege told reporters: “This Nobel Prize reflects the recognition of suffering and the lack of a just reparation for women victims of rape and sexual violence in all countries of the world and on all continents.” To the Congolese people, he has been received as their “Superman”, earning this global recognition as well as the congratulations of his own government.
Through philanthropic efforts dating back several years, Dassault Systèmes has been a long-time supporter and friend of this “Superman.” With the support of our DS Women’s Initiative, employee contingents have traveled to meet with Dr. Mukwege over the past 6 years to deliver sutures, bandages, crutches, and other desperately needed medical items.
Learning of the award, Dassault Systèmes’ North America Managing Director, Dean Marsh said, “Today, Dr. Denis Mukwege was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, shared with Nadia Murad. I’m very proud and humbled to be able to say that Dassault Systèmes Women’s Initiative has supported Dr. Mukwege for several years, delivering much needed surgical supplies. Our North America Chief Legal Counsel Mark Neil has led the delegation to Rwanda and Congo.” You can read about Dassault Systèmes work in Rwanda here.
To learn more about Dr. Mukwege and his work, watch the Netflix movie called “City of Joy,” featuring Dr. Mukwege and his work on behalf of victims of sexual violence.
