On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) presented its 2024/2025 annual performance report to both chambers of Parliament, addressing various national governance matters.
During the parliamentary session, Member of Parliament Pie Nizeyimana voiced concerns regarding the ongoing turmoil within Rayon Sports—a club highly regarded by Rwandans.
He stated, “Rayon Sports has been facing unrest caused by leadership disputes among its members. Immediate attention is essential to resolve these challenges before they worsen. RGB has intervened in similar situations before, notably in 2021, delivering positive outcomes.”
The issue of governance within Rayon Sports has drawn significant media attention. Nizeyimana added, “Recent headlines suggest that Rayon Sports is on the brink of collapse. Reports highlight the divided factions within the club, each calling separate general meetings, which were ultimately canceled citing security concerns.”
He appealed to RGB for action, questioning, “As the entity responsible for overseeing NGOs, what plans does RGB have to help resolve these problems? Rayon Sports has a strong fan base, and leadership disputes are negatively impacting them. We must shield the fans from the ongoing governance struggles within the club's administration.”
Another legislator, Kanamugire James, warned that a lack of intervention could worsen the crisis. He remarked, “These challenges are increasingly reported in the media. If RGB fails to intervene effectively, it may lead to further issues, potentially affecting revenue generation and Rwanda’s broader goals, including promoting national unity.”
Kanamugire emphasized the importance of reassuring Rayon Sports fans, saying, “Leadership must address fans’ concerns. The club faces numerous challenges, with apparent disagreements between the executive committee and the board of directors.
RGB should provide clarity and long-term solutions. Additionally, we need measures applicable to other sports clubs to ensure fans remain at the forefront of governance priorities.”
Responding to these concerns, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard, assured Parliament that their mandate includes monitoring the operations of organizations, including Rayon Sports.
She stated, “We are responsible for ensuring organizations comply with governance principles. Rayon Sports, as an NGO, falls under this oversight. Our role involves tracking adherence to governance standards, particularly amidst the challenges being reported.”
Dr. Uwicyeza detailed ongoing partnerships between RGB and Rayon Sports to ensure compliance with governance laws. She explained, “The club has recently revised its regulations, and RGB is actively working with them to align these changes with the law governing NGOs. Collaboration continues to improve governance and administration in ways that benefit and satisfy fans.”
These discussions come amidst mounting reports of leadership disagreements within Rayon Sports. While some leaders advocate for certain changes, others push for differing priorities, further complicating the governance situation.
Lawmakers have underscored the importance of finding permanent solutions to Rayon Sports’ leadership crisis.