RIB clarifies Shema Fabrice’s cheque case

Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) spokesperson Dr Murangira B. Thierry has said that the criminal investigation involving Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) president Fabrice Shema Ngoga is unrelated to his role at the football governing body.

Shema was arrested on August 11, 2026, prompting speculation on social media that his detention could be connected to his responsibilities at FERWAFA, which he has led since August 2025.

However, Dr. Murangira said the investigation concerns an alleged issuance of a cheque without sufficient funds and relates to Shema’s private professional activities.

“[He] is being investigated for issuing a cheque without sufficient funds. The investigation is still ongoing. It is a cheque related to the work he was doing,” Murangira told journalists during a press briefing.

 “It is his private work and has nothing to do with FERWAFA. What he is being investigated for is a bounced cheque related to his own business.” he added

The clarification is significant because Shema is one of the most prominent figures in Rwandan football and his arrest immediately generated questions over the potential impact on the federation.

There is currently no indication from RIB that the investigation involves FERWAFA, football funds or decisions taken by the federation.

Shema is the founder and chief executive of Africa Medical Suppliers, a company operating in Rwanda’s medical-supply sector.

The company’s own corporate information lists Shema Ngoga as its founder and CEO.

His business career has run alongside a growing profile in football administration.

Shema was elected FERWAFA president on August 30, 2025, after running unopposed in an election that followed his six-year tenure as president of AS Kigali.

During that period, the club won major domestic honours, including the Peace Cup in 2019 and 2022 and the Super Cup in 2022.

FIFA subsequently confirmed his election and described discussions with him as focusing on Rwanda’s football-development agenda, including infrastructure, women’s football and youth development.

Under his leadership, FERWAFA has pursued an ambitious agenda, including strengthening youth football, women’s football and infrastructure.

The federation has also been involved in preparations for Rwanda’s hosting of major regional competitions in 2026.

In May, Shema said FERWAFA was seeking to increase Rwanda’s representation at the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup, with Police FC and Kiyovu Sports potentially joining APR FC and Rayon Sports.

In July, he also signed a three-year agreement with Sudanese giants Al Hilal, who committed $300,000 to support the CECAFA Kagame Cup, with $100,000 pledged annually.

His election was accompanied by expectations that he would modernise Rwandan football, improve youth development and help create stronger financial foundations for the domestic game.

Shema’s administration facing major challenges including league sponsorship, youth structures, governance and the fight against corruption and match-fixing.

For now, however, RIB has drawn a clear line between those football responsibilities and the case under investigation.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no conclusion of guilt has been announced. Further details will depend on the outcome of the RIB inquiry and any subsequent legal proceedings.

Shema was elected FERWAFA president on August 30, 2025. (Photo/File)

Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) spokesperson Dr Murangira B. Thierry. (Photo/File)