Days of speculation surrounding Rwandan social media personality Mbabazi Shadia, popularly known as Shaddyboo, have finally been addressed after the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) clarified that she has not been detained.
Instead, authorities confirmed that she was voluntarily admitted to Isange Rehabilitation Centre in Huye District, where she is receiving treatment for substance abuse while also undergoing mental health assessment and counseling.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry dismissed reports claiming that Shaddyboo had been arrested, explaining that the decision followed findings obtained during the investigation and was made with her consent.
He stated, “Mbabazi Shadia is not detained. Instead, based on the results from RFI, which were collected during the investigation at Shaddyboo’s own request, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau sent her to rehab to help her overcome drug abuse, receive psychological support, and identify the underlying issue causing her substance use.”
According to RIB, the rehabilitation process is intended to help Shaddyboo overcome drug dependency while allowing specialists to identify any underlying factors that may have contributed to substance use.
She was admitted to the rehabilitation facility on July 6, 2026, only days after allegations emerged claiming that musician Yugi Umukaraza had sexually assaulted her after allegedly intoxicating her.
The allegations prompted a criminal investigation that led to the artist’s arrest.
During the preliminary investigation, Yugi Umukaraza was accused of two offences: rape and drug-related crimes.
His case file has since been forwarded to the National Public Prosecution Authority, which will determine whether formal charges should be filed before court or whether another legal decision should be taken.
While the criminal proceedings continue, authorities have chosen a rehabilitation-centered approach for Shaddyboo, focusing on treatment, psychological support, and long-term recovery rather than detention.
Shaddyboo remains one of Rwanda’s best-known entertainment personalities, having built a strong public profile through social media, fashion, lifestyle content, and regular engagement with her followers.
Her transfer to Isange Rehabilitation Centre also reflects Rwanda’s broader approach to addressing substance abuse by combining criminal investigations with rehabilitation and mental health services whenever appropriate, giving individuals an opportunity to recover while addressing the root causes of addiction.
