Some of the challenges often raised in Rwandan football include issues related to witchcraft, corruption, match-fixing, and lack of transparency. These problems have been considered by many as major factors slowing down the development of football in Rwanda.
In this article, we take a closer look at the tasks awaiting FERWAFA’s new Secretary General, Bonnie Mugabe, following his appointment on 1 December 2025.
The position of FERWAFA Secretary General is one of the most important within the federation’s leadership and has proven challenging for many.
Over the past decade, it has seen six different officeholders. These include: Bonnie Mugabe (2025–), Richard Mugisha (2025), Adolphe Kalisa (2023), Henry Muhire (2023), François Régis Uwayezu (2018), and Tharcille Latifah Uwamahoro (2016).
By appointing Mugabe, the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has embarked on a significant new phase of leadership and administrative renewal. His entry into office marks both a return and a new beginning, as Mugabe previously served in several important positions within the organisation before departing for a role with the world football governing body, FIFA.
His appointment, effective 1 December, signals a strategic shift aimed at strengthening the federation’s governance, accountability, and operational efficiency.
On his first day in office, during an official handover ceremony held at FERWAFA headquarters, Mugabe addressed the federation’s staff with a blend of humility, determination, and urgency.
His remarks outlined his vision, expectations, and the transformative agenda that will shape his tenure. Speaking candidly, he emphasised that the future of FERWAFA and its ability to meet both local and international football standards rests heavily on the mindset, discipline, and performance of its staff.
Mugabe underscored that his success in meeting the Key Performance Indicators assigned to him by the new Executive Committee depends on having a competent and efficient secretariat.
To this end, he issued a firm but transparent warning: only employees prepared to work under pressure, maintain high performance, and align with the federation’s strategic goals would remain part of the team.
Those unwilling or unable to meet these expectations might compel him to activate what he called “Plan B,” which would involve replacing individuals who do not meet the required standards.
This blunt message set the tone for a transformative era characterised by higher expectations, accountability, and a renewed work ethic.
Mugabe’s appointment comes at a crucial time for FERWAFA. The position of Secretary General had been vacant since August, when the federation elected a new Executive Committee led by President Fabrice Shema.
The leadership transition was seen as an opportunity for the organisation to rebuild credibility and reinforce its internal systems, especially after years of reputational damage caused by mismanagement scandals.
One of the most recent and notable cases involved former Secretary General Adolphe Kalisa, who stands accused of misappropriating more than $21,000 (approximately Rwf 30 million).
This case symbolises longstanding governance problems that have undermined public trust and hindered football development.
According to Mugabe, compliance with rules and transparent operations are the only safeguards against the mismanagement and financial scandals that have plagued the organisation for years.
He urged employees to align themselves with a culture of integrity, warning that non-compliance would not be tolerated.
the urgent call for accountability and discipline, Mugabe also highlighted the importance of teamwork, mindset change, and a shared commitment to FERWAFA’s long term strategic vision.
He pointed out that the success of the federation will not hinge on one individual but rather on the collective resolve and unity of its workforce.
He encouraged staff to think big, be ready for demanding tasks, and embrace a new professional culture anchored in efficiency and responsibility.
The federation’s development objectives and Rwanda’s broader football ambitions require a cohesive team that understands the magnitude of its mission.
Mugabe’s return to FERWAFA comes with substantial professional experience. Before joining FIFA, he worked as a sports journalist with The New Times and held various important roles within FERWAFA, including Head of Competitions, Media Officer, and Spokesperson.
This background, combined with his academic qualifications he studied Football Governance and Management at the University of Leicester in England, in a programme delivered in partnership with the CIES Institute and FIFA equips him with both the theoretical grounding and practical expertise necessary to navigate the challenges of football administration.
His international exposure, especially through his role as Venue Planning, Delivery, and Security Operations Officer at FIFA, is expected to bring modern administrative practices and global standards to FERWAFA’s operations.
This experience positions him to introduce reforms that will enhance transparency, efficiency, and overall organisational integrity.
Under Mugabe, the federation’s objectives are centred on creating a results-driven culture and eliminating complacency within the organisation.
The Secretary General of the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) serves as the administrative backbone and de facto chief executive of the organisation, responsible for ensuring its smooth daily operations.
The SG oversees the secretariat, coordinates key departments from competitions and finance to communications and development and ensures all activities align with FERWAFA’s long-term strategic objectives.
While the Executive Committee sets policy, the SG implements these decisions, acting as the bridge between leadership and staff.
The role requires strong financial oversight, ensuring transparency in budgeting, procurement, and reporting particularly important given FERWAFA’s history of mismanagement.
The SG also manages national football competitions and oversees development programmes, including youth, women’s, and grassroots football, as well as FIFA-supported projects. Additionally, the SG represents FERWAFA in regional and international forums and liaises with FIFA, CAF, and CECAFA.
