Man Has Lived In Isolation For 55 Years Because Of His Fear Of Women

A Life in Isolation: 55 Years of Gynophobia

For over five decades, 71-year-old Callixte Nzamwita from Rwanda has lived in extreme isolation, confined by an intense fear of women known as gynophobia. Beginning this self-imposed exile at 16, he has barricaded himself in his home, avoiding all contact with women. In a video by Afrimax TV, Nzamwita shared, “I locked myself inside here and have a fence on my house to make sure that women will not come closer to me.”

Performing all daily activities within his home, he relies on distant neighbors for assistance, refusing anyone close. Despite appearing frail, he expresses contentment, stating, “I do not want women around me because they make me really scared.”

This case sheds light on specific phobias, which typically focus on particular objects or situations. While gynophobia is not officially recognized as a distinct disorder, Nzamwita’s story highlights the complex impact of specific phobias on individuals. His decades-long isolation raises questions about the diverse manifestations of mental health challenges and emphasizes the need for understanding and support.