The request was conveyed by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, where he engaged with Tunisian authorities in a diplomatic to secure support for Louise Mushikiwabo as she seeks another term at the helm of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie.

During a meeting with Kaïs Saïed, Nduhungirehe delivered a special message from Paul Kagame, emphasizing Rwanda’s interest in strengthening ties with Tunisia while rallying backing for Mushikiwabo’s candidacy.

Talks held on April 16, 2026, also explored ways to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. As part of the visit, Nduhungirehe met with Tunisia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mohamed Ali Nafti, where both sides signed a draft agreement on political consultations and agreed to establish a Joint Permanent Commission aimed at boosting cooperation.

Mushikiwabo, who has led the OIF since January 2019, is seeking a new mandate following calls from several member states that have commended her leadership.

During her tenure, the organization has recorded notable progress, including an increase in member contributions after more than a decade of stagnation, as well as expanded capacity to mobilize funding beyond traditional sources.

Her re-election bid comes as Rwanda continues to advocate for stronger collaboration within the Francophonie, positioning Mushikiwabo’s leadership as key to advancing the organization’s priorities in the years ahead.