Family, friends and members of Rwanda’s sporting fraternity on Saturday, January 18, paid their last respects to long-serving Rayon Sports team doctor Charles Mugemana, who was laid to rest at Rusororo Cemetery in Gasabo District. Mugemana, who passed away on January 13, served Rayon Sports for more than three decades and was widely regarded as one of the most loyal and respected figures in the club’s history. He dedicated his life to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of players and staff, both on and off the pitch. ALSO READ: Rayon Sports team doctor Mugemana passes away Speaking during the burial ceremony, his daughter and musician Yvonne Mugemana, popularly known as Queen Cha, emotionally recounted the difficult journey her father endured during his illness, a struggle he chose to face quietly. “His illness started on August 1 last year, but not many people knew about it because he didn’t want to worry anyone,” she said. “Even when he was in pain, he always tried to remain strong and calm, just as he had lived his entire life.” Queen Cha described her late father as the greatest blessing in her life, crediting him for shaping her character and values. “He is the greatest blessing I have ever received. The person I am today, the discipline, respect and values I carry, I learnt them all from him,” she said. She added that the family initially did not believe the illness was serious, noting that Mugemana was rarely sick. “The only time we truly knew something was wrong was when he started missing team trainings or matches, because football was part of his life,” she explained. According to his daughter, even in his weakest moments, Mugemana remained deeply concerned about others. “He always asked about people before anyone could ask about him. That is the kind of man he was.” Beyond football, Mugemana was also remembered as a devoted Christian and an active member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Fellow congregants described him as a man who lived by example, faithfully practicing the biblical principle of loving others as oneself. ALSO READ: Rayon Sports’ fallen doctor Mugemana eulogied as devoted professional Church leaders and members testified that he was known for his kindness, humility and willingness to serve, noting that his faith was reflected not only in words but through consistent actions. “He taught us that faith is lived through how you treat others,” one church member said. “We will remember him as someone who truly loved his fellow human beings.” The burial ceremony was attended by current and former Rayon Sports players, club officials, medical personnel, and prominent figures from Rwanda’s sports and entertainment sectors, highlighting the wide impact Mugemana had across society. Mugemana joined Rayon Sports in 1995 and became one of the most familiar and respected figures within the club’s technical and medical setup. As he was laid to rest, tributes painted the picture of a man whose legacy extends far beyond football — a devoted professional, a loving father, and a committed Christian who touched many lives through service and compassion.
