Adria Umurangamirwa, 89, a close companion of the renowned Rwandan heroine Félicité Niyitegeka, who played a pivotal role in rescuing lives during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, shared with The New Times the remarkable kindness of her friend.
They shared the same educational journey, attending the Save school together in 1951, and later collaborated in the diocese of Nyundo. Umurangamirwa fondly recalled Niyitegeka’s courteous and pleasant demeanor, coupled with her innate sense of fairness and forgiveness, as well as her steadfast faith.
Umurangamirwa portrayed Niyitegeka as a shining example who earned the admiration of her peers and the reverence of the nuns overseeing their schooling. Despite being a year younger, Umurangamirwa had the privilege of witnessing firsthand Niyitegeka’s noble character.
Niyitegeka’s reputation for exemplary conduct and compassionate deeds was widely acknowledged during their time in high school. Umurangamirwa recounted how Niyitegeka exuded gracefulness even during sports events, maintaining her composure. She vividly recalled her friend’s ingenuity in preserving her dignity through her attire and her impeccable handwriting, which served as a benchmark for others.
![Félicité Niyitegeka - lay nun of Hutu origin, during the genocide preferred to die rather than abandon 43 Tutsis who she was safeguarding [biography]](https://en.gariwo.net/i/202205171536_3eb97ba542f5537a85_IMG-20200416-WA0009.jpeg)
Post-school, Niyitegeka and Umurangamirwa pursued separate professional paths within the same diocese of Nyundo. Despite her achievements, Niyitegeka remained humble and accessible as a teacher, treating each student with profound respect. Umurangamirwa highlighted Niyitegeka’s passion for music, reminiscing how she shared her musical talents during leisure moments, spreading joy through melodies.
During her tenure at Ecole Scientifique Notre Dame d’Afrique in Rubavu District, Niyitegeka excelled not only as a teacher but also as an accountant, showcasing her versatility. In 1975, she transitioned to head the Centre Saint Pierre, a charitable home under Nyundo Catholic Diocese, where her warmth and hospitality left an enduring mark.
Reflecting on Niyitegeka’s journey to becoming a nun, Umurangamirwa noted the initial ambiguity during their school days. However, Archbishop Aloys Bigirumwami’s call to serve the nation in schools after his coronation deeply inspired her to pursue a life of service. Two years after completing her studies, Niyitegeka embraced the calling of the sisterhood, embodying the values of compassion and selflessness.
Her impact transcended academic achievements, epitomizing unity and compassion. Niyitegeka’s unwavering faith and generosity resonated with all who knew her, and her legacy continues through the lives she touched and the hearts she warmed.
Born in 1934, Niyitegeka, a national heroine in the Imena category, tragically lost her life on April 21, 1994, while hosting a retreat at Centre Saint Pierre for members of Auxiliaries of the Apostolate. She was targeted for her steadfast efforts to protect Tutsi seeking refuge at the center
