Rwandan authorities have arrested six people for allegedly directing insults and discriminatory slurs at Salima Mukansanga, a trailblazing female referee who made history by being among the first women selected to officiate at the men’s FIFA World Cup.
Arrests After Offensive Chants
The incident occurred on January 20 during a Rwanda Premier League match between Kiyovu Sports Club and Gasogi United, played in Nyamata, south of Kigali. According to officials, a section of Kiyovu supporters repeatedly shouted abusive chants aimed at Mukansanga as she refereed the goalless draw.
On Thursday, Rwanda’s Investigative Bureau (RIB) confirmed the arrest of six suspects, including three men and three women. Spokesman Thierry Murangira stated that they are being held for “public insults” and “discrimination,” offenses punishable under the country’s Penal Code.
“These individuals are suspected of committing the crimes during the football match between Kiyovu FC and Gasogi United. Investigations are ongoing, and the case will soon be forwarded to prosecutors,” Murangira said. He added that authorities are still pursuing other suspects believed to have been involved in the abuse.
Legal Consequences Under Rwandan Law
Rwanda has taken a firm stance against verbal abuse and discrimination in public spaces. Under the Penal Code, those convicted of public insults face two to six months in prison along with fines ranging between $500 and $3,000. Offenders found guilty of discrimination risk harsher penalties, including five to seven years’ imprisonment.
The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) also announced its own investigation into the matter. The governing body promised to identify and expose those responsible, stressing that discrimination and gender-based abuse would not be tolerated in the sport.
Mukansanga’s Trailblazing Career
Salima Mukansanga, 34, has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most accomplished referees. She became the first woman to officiate at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022 and has refereed in major global tournaments, including the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.
In 2022, FIFA named her among 36 referees selected to officiate at the men’s World Cup in Qatar. Although she did not take charge of any match during the tournament, her inclusion marked a historic milestone for female referees worldwide.
Mukansanga’s rise has been celebrated as a symbol of progress for gender equality in sports, particularly in Africa, where female referees remain underrepresented in men’s competitions.
Calls for Respect and Equality in Sports
The incident has sparked renewed conversations about the treatment of women in football. Advocates say the harassment faced by Mukansanga highlights the challenges female officials encounter in male-dominated sports.
Sports analysts and gender equality campaigners in Rwanda have urged football clubs, fans, and governing bodies to create safer environments for women in the game. They argue that role models like Mukansanga should be supported and celebrated rather than subjected to abuse.
For now, Rwandan authorities appear determined to set an example by prosecuting those involved. The arrests send a message that gender-based insults and discrimination in sports will not go unpunished.
