The recent death of Rwanda’s cycling star, Godfrey ‘Cho’ Gahemba, dealt a big blow to the country. Gahemba who was hailed as Rwanda’s rising star died a sudden death after being hit by a vehicle while giving instructions to his team in Rwamagana.

He has been the head coach of the Eastern Province cycling team in the ongoing Good Governance Championship.

Members of the cycling team with whom the late competed in the Tour of Rwanda competitions described his death as a great loss.

Andrien Niyonshuti and Nathan Byukusenge finished in first and second positions respectively in the Tour of Rwanda competition (1072 Kms).

The duo says they signed a contract with MTN South Africa and are expected to leave the country, Gahemba was expected to stay behind to train other upcoming cyclists.

The president of the Rwanda Cycling Federation, Aimable Bayingana also said they were banking on the late to inspire other riders.

"He was recognised this year when he finished in third position in the Tour of Rwanda competitions, we had identified his talent earlier- the reason we sent him to South Africa for training,” Bayingana said.

Adding, "It was after that training that he competed in the Junior World Championship in South Africa where he emerged third.”

Niyonshuti, who is also the late Gahemba’s cousin brother said: "I don’t know where to begin from, we had so many expectations in him, but we hope God who has taken him will help us get a relatively similar person as he cannot be replaced.”

Niyonshuti recalled that Gahemba regarded him as a father, whom he could give advice. He is the one who trained Gahemba and encouraged him to join the national cycling team in 2007.

"He was a good listener which might have shaped him. He was also humble because he was from a humble family,” Niyonshuti said of the late, stressing that he had lost a great friend.

"However, since they die and leave me alive…I have offered myself to God, I hope He will wipe my tears,” he said.

Byukusenge said: "We had helped him and had reached a time where we are proud of him since he was now a champion.”

Pointing out that Gahemba’s death is a loss not only to the Rwanda’s cycling fraternity but the whole Rwandan community because he was a trainer.

"It is hard to get a replacement, but there is no choice. He was a kind of person, leaders and the cycling federation would seek advice from where need be, and he was available whenever needed,” Byukusenge said.

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