I was born on 31 January 1964 in Rumangabo, home to Virunga National Park headquarters. I guess I was destined to become a Ranger. I am married to Sebulikoko Therese and we have 5 children. I hold the rank of Chief Sergeant and work in the same town where I was born. I live my life in service to my family and country, and wish that more people in the world lived this way.

When I began my service, I found the going to be quite tough. I started as a guard and worked very hard. In 1989, this payed off and I was promoted to the rank of 2nd Class. I was given the new job of guiding people to see the chimpanzees.

As I look back on my years of work, one day stands out the most. I was leading a routine patrol of 5 rangers when I got the sense that we were being followed. I told my men to pick up the pace and after only about 50 meters decided it was best for us to split up and hide. From our hiding places, we could see 20 militiamen standing right where we had just been. They sensed our presence, but could not find us. We watched nervously as they searched the ground for signs. Before they could figure out that we were only meters away, their chief officer called them back to the main patrol. If they had found us, it would not have been good. Despite the chances of being attacked by militia groups as we carry out our work, I am ready and willing to make the necessary sacrifices to protect the park. Hopefully, peace will come to Congo again soon and my job will no longer involve so much risk.