The death of former Amavubi defender Jean-Bosco Uwacu has sent shockwaves through Rwanda’s football fraternity, leaving his family, former teammates, clubs, and fans in deep mourning.

Uwacu was laid to rest on Monday, January 20, at Nyamirambo Muslim Cemetery, just hours after his passing. According to his family, the former APR FC and Etincelles centre back succumbed to illness.

At the time of his death, the 37-year-old was serving as assistant coach at Sunrise FC. His health condition worsened after suffering a hand infection in October 2025, which later developed into severe complications, including memory loss that left him unable to recognise those around him.

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Former Amavubi stars Olivier Karekezi and Haruna Niyonzima led tributes, remembering Uwacu as an unsung hero who contributed to the development of Rwandan football, particularly during his coaching career.

"Our deepest condolences to the family of Uwacu,” said Karekezi. "We will always remember his contribution to development of Rwandan football.”

Niyonzima echoed the sentiments and said, "The country has lost a legend who loved football and his country at large. We are saddened by the death of our colleague,” he said.

"Uwacu was indeed an inspiration to many. He made all the teams he played for, their fans, and his peers proud through his contribution to this beautiful game,” Niyonzima added.

APR FC and Amavubi supporter Jacques "Rujugiro” Munyaneza also paid tribute to the late defender.

Uwacu began his football journey in his hometown of Rubavu under the late coach Jitiada Mungo, popularly known as Vigoureux. He first rose to prominence during his high school years at College Inyemeramihigo Secondary School, where he combined education with competitive football.

"His sudden death, which remains a tragedy, should remind us how precious life is and how we should value the little time we have to pursue our dreams,” said Alexis Habiyaremye, who played alongside Uwacu at Inyemeramihigo Secondary School, in an interview with Times Sport.

He later broke into topflight football with Etincelles FC and went on to play for several of Rwanda’s leading clubs, including ATRACO (now defunct), APR FC, and Police FC.

After retiring from professional football, Uwacu transitioned into coaching. Between 2020 and 2022, he was involved in football development initiatives at Dream Team Football Academy before joining Sunrise FC as assistant coach in 2023, a role he held until his passing.

"We are saddened by the passing of our former assistant coach, Jean Bosco Uwacu, who served the club from June 23, 2023, to 2026,” Sunrise FC said in a statement posted on social media. "Our thoughts are with his family during this time of grief.”

Born in Rubavu, Jean Bosco Uwacu was widely regarded as one of the finest defenders of his generation in Rwandan football, earning admiration for his discipline, leadership, and consistency both on and off the pitch.