Rwanda is set to host the 47th session of the Foreign Ministers Conference of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) from Nov. 19 to 21 at the Kigali Convention Center, organizers confirmed Monday.
The annual summit brings together foreign ministers from member states of the Francophonie to discuss key political, cultural, and diplomatic priorities. Discussions typically include promotion of the French language, cultural diversity, peace, democracy and human rights.
The Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB), the body organizing the event, said the selection of Rwanda to host this year’s session is a recognition of the country’s active role and commitment within the Francophonie.
“These ministerial meetings are vital for strengthening ties among French-speaking nations and advancing shared values of cooperation, peace, and democracy,” the RCB said in a statement.
The decision for Rwanda to host the 47th edition was made during the 46th conference held in Paris, France, where member states unanimously endorsed Kigali as the next host city.
Rwanda has been a member of the Francophonie since its founding in 1970. The organization, launched on March 20, 1970, now includes 93 countries and governments: 56 full members, five associate members and 32 observers.
The current Secretary-General of the Francophonie is Louise Mushikiwabo, a Rwandan diplomat who was first elected to the post in October 2018 by heads of state and government from member countries. She was re-elected in October 2022 for a second term.
