President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined the rest of the world in welcoming Minister Louise Mushikiwabo’s unanimous victory as the new Secretary General of La Francophonie.

Mushikiwabo’s election to the helm of the 84-nation bloc took place on Friday during the 17th OIF summit in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Her win follows months on the campaign trail that took her to different countries across the world.

Mushikiwabo will take over from Canadian national Michaëlle Jean, who has led the body since 2014.

President Kagame described Mushikiwabo’s victory as "historic” for Rwandans and Africans who unanimously fronted her as their single candidate.

He thanked the African countries for the support and other member states for backing Rwanda’s candidate.

This, he added, was an historic moment for Rwandans and Africans in general, adding it demonstrates that there are no insurmountable challenges for a united and determined Africa.

On her part, the First Lady urged Mushikiwabo to carry on her new duties with the Rwandan Agaciro (dignity), which she urged her to inculcate in the Francophonie community.

While responding to First Lady’s comment, Mushikiwabo said that Mrs Kagame’s message was an "ointment to a soul that was full on emotions”.

She said that the message from the First Lady brought great relief at the end of a very busy day; one she said was full of emotions.

Mushikiwabo also commended those that supported her through her journey to winning the Francophone top post.

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