Denis Mukwege

Denis Mukwege founded Panzi Hospital in Bukavu, South Kivu, to provide medical care to women suffering from gynecological injuries. The hospital became a specialized center for treating survivors of sexual violence, treating thousands of women from the conflict-affected region.

Mukwege survived an assassination attempt at his home in Bukavu, where gunmen killed his guard. He fled to Europe for several months before returning to the DRC. The attack was linked to his outspoken criticism of the government's failure to protect women.

Mukwege was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with Nadia Murad for their efforts to end the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. The award brought global attention to the plight of rape victims in conflict zones and Mukwege's work at Panzi Hospital.

Mukwege announced his candidacy for the 2023 presidential election, positioning himself as a reformer and anti-corruption candidate. His entry into politics was seen as a significant development, though he finished a distant fourth in the election.