Rwandan football on Saturday August 30, 2025, turned a new page with the election of Shema Ngoga Fabrice as president of the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA). His victory, confirmed during the General Assembly in Kigali marks the start of a four-year mandate that many believe could redefine the future of the game.
Shema secured an emphatic 51 out of 53 votes, a result that underscored the confidence of delegates in his leadership. He replaces Alphonse Munyantwali, who had been at the helm since June 2023, serving a transitional role after the resignation of Olivier Mugabo Nizeyimana.
Shema is not a new face in local football. Since 2019, he has served as president of AS Kigali, where he oversaw the club’s most successful spell in recent years, lifting four major trophies including the Peace Cup titles in 2019 and 2022.
His leadership there is widely credited with fostering professionalism and a competitive spirit. Away from football, Shema is also a seasoned entrepreneur.
As CEO of Africa Medical Supplier Plc, Rwanda’s first publicly listed health company, at the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE) and a former Vice President of Junior Chamber International (JCI), he has earned a reputation for combining business acumen with leadership skills, qualities he now brings to FERWAFA.
Addressing delegates after his election, Shema pledged to rebuild the sport with fresh ideas. His vision centers on professionalism, sustainability, and inclusivity, with a particular focus on elevating women’s football.
“I intend to make positive changes in the way our football development is managed. We need to build strong football structures and ensure that we bring back the winning spirit,” he said.
To deliver on this agenda, Shema has formed a new executive team that blends continuity with renewal. Some in the committee are tasked with women’s football, competitions, legal affairs, medical matters, and technical development.
Key members include Claudine Garasabwe as First Vice President in charge of Finance and Administration, Richard Mugisha as Second Vice President responsible for Technical Matters, and Thierry Nshuti overseeing Finance and Marketing.
The football community now looks to Shema to stabilize and modernize FERWAFA, strengthen youth development, attract sponsorship, and enhance Rwanda’s competitiveness internationally.
His track record at AS Kigali and his strong mandate suggest he has the capacity to deliver. This is the beginning of a new era, one where ambition and professionalism are expected to guide the future of the beautiful game.
