An unusual legal battle between a Rwandan man and a woman of Omani origin, who was born in Rwanda, is drawing wide public attention. The man has requested an increase in child support and access to his ex-wife’s property.
Didier Semanyenzi, reportedly unemployed, was married to Moza Massoud, a foreign national from Oman. The couple had three children together but later legally separated.
The court granted custody of the children to the father, Semanyenzi, and ordered the mother to pay monthly child support of 600,000 Rwandan francs (200,000 per child).
In terms of property division, Moza was awarded a house in Kibagabaga, which is rented for 2.5 million RWF/month, while the man received the multi-level house they used to share.
Unsatisfied with that ruling, Semanyenzi appealed and won. The Kibagabaga house was reassigned to him, and the former shared house was split—he was given the upper floor, and Moza the lower floor.
Despite a court order allowing Moza visitation rights and access to her children’s school, she says she hasn’t seen them since 2022.
Semanyenzi allegedly transferred the children to an unknown school, and Moza claims that whenever she tries to reach them, she is threatened and told that Semanyenzi has powerful connections, including a parliamentary sister and a close friend who is a prosecutor.
As a result, Moza wrote to President Paul Kagame, pleading for intervention and access to her children.
In a recent hearing, Moza asked the court to enforce visitation, while Semanyenzi requested an increase in child support, school fee coverage, clothing allowances, and personal financial support, citing unemployment.
The court heard that Moza earns 14 million RWF monthly through her work with international organizations.
Semanyenzi also asked to be granted alleged property in Oman, though Moza has documents proving she owns none. He insists he has evidence of its existence.
The final court decision is expected on July 29, 2025.
