Ndakasi was a mountain gorilla born in the lush forests of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her life began with tragedy. In 2007, when she was only two months old, park rangers found her clinging to the lifeless body of her mother, who had been killed by poachers. The tiny infant was weak, terrified, and too young to survive on her own.
That same night, a ranger named Andre Bauma took her into his arms. He held her against his chest to keep her warm, whispering to her and giving her the comfort she had suddenly lost. From that moment on, Andre became not just her caretaker, but her family. He never left her side.
Ndakasi was brought to the Senkwenkwe Center, a sanctuary inside Virunga created specifically for orphaned gorillas. There, she was raised with constant care, surrounded by people who protected her, fed her, played with her, and taught her how to feel safe again. She grew up alongside another orphaned gorilla, Ndeze, and together they became symbols of hope for conservation.
In time, Ndakasi’s gentle spirit and playful personality became known around the world. She often interacted closely with the rangers who protected her. One of these moments — the famous “gorilla selfie” where she stands tall next to a ranger, almost posing — spread across the internet. Millions of people saw it, and her image helped bring global attention to the dangers gorillas face and the dedication of those who protect them.
Ndakasi lived her entire life in the sanctuary because she had been rescued too young to be released back into the wild. But she lived surrounded by love — from Andre, from the rangers, and from people around the world who followed her story.
In 2021, after a long illness, Ndakasi grew weak. When her time finally came, she passed away quietly in the arms of Andre, the same man who held her the night she was rescued. It was a full circle of life, loss, and love — a bond that lasted 14 years.
Ndakasi was more than just a gorilla.
She became a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the deep connection possible between humans and wildlife. Her story continues to inspire people to protect endangered animals and preserve the natural world.
Rest in peace, sweet Ndakasi.
You were deeply loved — and you will never be forgotten.
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