By: Marcel Nzabamwita
Exactly one year ago the media fraternity, lovers of sports and the country as a whole lost one of their own and an asset to the community: Shyaka Claver.
In a sudden death due to heart complications, one of the founders of sports journalism in Rwanda was gone but the impact of his work will live on forever.
Shyaka Claver was born in Uganda on the 23rd October 1978. He started presenting the sports show at Radio 10 in late 2004 but also did more as he presented an Education show.
His memorial service today began with a church service which was held in the morning and was succeeded by a visit to the grave at 1:30 pm. The memorial service was then completed at the national stadium with two friendly matches.
Shyaka Claver was involved in mentoring young children playing soccer around the country and was known for his attendance at training grounds for children to take a look at the developing talent.
It is in this light that the first memorial game was between two teams that he had mentored: “11 rapide” and Esperance. The game ended with Esperance winning 4 goals to 2 of “11 rapide”.
An excitement filled friendly-match followed between sports journalists and ULK students who studied with Shyaka Claver before his demise. The game ended on a happy note with the ULK students scoring 6 goals to 2 goals of the journalists.
Shyaka Claver will be remembered for his work in founding and promoting sports journalism and professionalism in Rwanda that was nonexistent barely 7 years ago. He was also a husband to Peace Batamuliza Shyaka, a father to two beautiful daughters, a friend to many and an impact on the whole journalism arena in Rwanda.
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