Fabrice Shema Ngoga has resigned as president of the Rwanda Football Federation, FERWAFA, effective September 29. He cited an integrity issue related to a recent conviction. Shema was sentenced to a six-month prison term, suspended for one year, and fined Rwf3 million. The conviction was part of a plea agreement in a case involving bounced cheques. Shema's resignation ends his 13-month tenure, which began in August 2025.
The conviction was related to allegations that Shema issued two cheques totalling $600,000 without sufficient funds. He was also accused of fraudulently obtaining another person's property in a commercial dispute. The case involved Africa Medical Supplier and UAE-based ABZL International General Trading LLC. Shema's resignation letter described the decision as the most responsible course to protect FERWAFA's credibility.
Legal observers in Rwanda have questioned whether the suspended sentence automatically disqualifies Shema from holding a federation office. The eligibility rules of FERWAFA are now under scrutiny. Shema's resignation removes immediate uncertainty, but FERWAFA has not yet named an interim president or set a date for fresh elections. The federation's four-year mandate is still in effect.
During his brief term, Shema outlined a development agenda for Rwandan football. He met FIFA president Gianni Infantino in Rabat to discuss cooperation, signalling ambition for the sport's growth. Shema's resignation letter thanked the General Assembly, executive committee, staff, partners, supporters, and the national team. He pledged to facilitate a smooth handover of responsibilities.
The Rwanda Football Federation has not announced a plan for filling the vacancy. The process of selecting an interim president or scheduling fresh elections is pending. FERWAFA's leadership will need to address the integrity concerns and eligibility rules in light of Shema's resignation.
Shema's case has raised questions about integrity and accountability in Rwandan football. The federation's leadership will need to address these concerns to maintain credibility. The impact of Shema's resignation on Rwandan football remains to be seen.
The resignation of Fabrice Shema Ngoga as FERWAFA president has significant implications for Rwandan football. The federation will need to navigate the leadership vacuum and address concerns about integrity and eligibility.
Key points
- Fabrice Shema Ngoga resigned as FERWAFA president due to integrity concerns related to a recent conviction.
- Shema's resignation ends his 13-month tenure, which began in August 2025.
- The eligibility rules of FERWAFA are under scrutiny following Shema's resignation.
