The President of the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA), Shema Ngoga Fabrice, has paid $600,000 in a case involving business agreements and disputed checks. The case originated from agreements between his company, Africa Medical Supplier Plc, and ABZL International General Trading LLC of the United Arab Emirates. Shema is facing two charges, including issuing bad checks and fraudulently obtaining property.
The case involves two checks, one for $400,000 and the other for $200,000, issued as part of a business agreement dispute. Shema was arrested on August 11, 2026, by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB). The RIB stated that the investigation into these charges is related to his private business activities and not to his duties as FERWAFA President.
In a preliminary hearing, the prosecution explained that the issue arose from a contract between Africa Medical Supplier Plc and ABZL International General Trading LLC worth over one million Euros. Shema denied the charges, citing issues with account usage and changes made to the checks. On September 2, 2026, the Nyarugenge District Court ordered his 30-day detention, which he later appealed in the Nyarugenge High Court.
On September 17, 2026, the appeal hearing was adjourned after the prosecution and Shema's defense informed the court that they had reached a plea bargaining agreement. However, the prosecution had not yet presented the agreement to the court, leading to a postponement until September 23, 2026, to allow for its submission.
The plea bargaining agreement does not automatically overturn the court's decision; the court must review and decide on its implications for the case. Shema's payment of $600,000 is part of the ongoing proceedings. The case has garnered significant attention due to Shema's position as the head of Rwanda's football federation.
The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) emphasized that the charges against Shema are related to his business dealings and not his role at FERWAFA. This distinction is crucial as it separates his personal business activities from his responsibilities as a sports administrator. The case continues to unfold with the agreed-upon plea bargaining yet to be formally presented to the court.
The developments in this case have sparked discussions within Rwanda's sports and business communities. Shema's situation highlights the complexities that can arise when personal business interests intersect with public roles. As the case approaches its next stage, stakeholders are awaiting the court's decision on the plea bargaining agreement and its implications for all parties involved.
Key points
- Shema Fabrice paid $600,000 in a case involving business agreements and disputed checks.
- The case originated from agreements between his company and ABZL International General Trading LLC.
- Shema's payment is part of ongoing proceedings as he faces charges of issuing bad checks and fraud.
