Shema vows to stay involved in Football after FERWAFA handover

Former Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) president Shema Ngoga Fabrice has pledged to remain involved in Rwandan football after officially handing over his responsibilities to interim president Me. Claudine Gasarabwe.

The handover took place at FERWAFA headquarters today, in the presence of members of the federation’s Executive Committee, staff and partners.

Shema, who served as president for approximately 13 months, thanked those who supported him during his tenure and expressed confidence in the continued development of Rwandan football.

“I am not going far from football. I will come to the stadium to watch matches, and I will accompany Amavubi on different occasions. I believe we will qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. Let us continue building our football and enjoying it,” he said.

Gasarabwe, who previously served as FERWAFA’s first vice president, said the federation would continue implementing the programme established under their leadership, while making improvements where necessary.

“The programme we started when we were elected is one we will not abandon. Where necessary, we will improve it for the benefit of Rwandan football,” she said.

She also called for unity, professionalism, improved performance and accountability as the federation navigates the leadership transition.

Shema resigned on September 29, 2026, bringing his tenure to an early end after approximately 13 months in office.

FERWAFA subsequently confirmed that Gasarabwe would serve as acting president until a successor is elected in January 2027.

The specific election date and venue are expected to be announced through an Extraordinary General Assembly.

The leadership change followed legal proceedings involving Shema’s private business, Africa Medical Supplier, which deals in medical equipment and supplies.

He faced charges related to issuing cheques without sufficient funds and fraudulently obtaining another person’s property.

The case involved two cheques worth a combined US$600,000 and a business transaction involving ABZL International General Trading LLC.

On September 22, the Nyarugenge Primary Court approved a plea agreement between Shema and the prosecution.

He admitted the offences, repaid the amount associated with the dishonoured cheques and received a six-month prison sentence suspended for one year, alongside a fine of RWF3 million.

Shema subsequently announced his resignation, citing personal integrity concerns and the need to protect FERWAFA’s credibility and public confidence.

His departure has left the federation preparing for a new presidential election while maintaining continuity in its operations.

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