FERWAFA president Shema Ngoga arrested over alleged bounced cheque

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has confirmed the arrest of Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) President Dr Shema Ngoga Fabrice over allegations of issuing a cheque without sufficient funds.

RIB spokesperson Dr Murangira B. Thierry said Shema was arrested on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, and is being held at the RIB station in Kicukiro as investigations continue. The case has not yet been submitted to the prosecution.

RIB said investigators are also looking into other alleged offences linked to the case, but did not provide further details. The agency has not indicated whether the allegations are connected to Shema’s duties as FERWAFA president.

Shema, who also serves as Managing Director of Africa Medical Supplier Plc Rwanda, became prominent in Rwandan football during his tenure as president of AS Kigali.

Under his leadership, AS Kigali won the Peace Cup in 2019 and 2022, as well as the FERWAFA Super Cup in 2022.

Shema was elected FERWAFA president for a four-year term in August 2025, succeeding Munyentwari Alphonse. He was the sole candidate in the election.

Since taking office, FERWAFA has increased prize money in domestic competitions and placed greater emphasis on women’s football and the development of young players.

Shema also pledged to forego the salary attached to the FERWAFA presidency, with the reported $200,000 he would have earned over four years instead directed towards developing young football talent.

His arrest comes as he approaches his first year at the helm of Rwanda’s football governing body.

Shema remains innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court.