Rwanda Strengthens Armenia Ties as Nzabamwita Presents Diplomatic Credentials

Yerevan, 11 August 2026 - Rwanda’s Ambassador to Russia, Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita, has formally presented his credentials to Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan, officially becoming Rwanda’s representative to Armenia.

During the ceremony in Yerevan, Nzabamwita conveyed greetings from President Paul Kagame and presented a letter seeking Armenia’s support for Louise Mushikiwabo’s bid for a third term as Secretary General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). The election is expected to take place during the OIF Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in November 2026.

Mushikiwabo has led the Francophonie since January 2019 and is seeking another term after receiving support from several member states. Her tenure has included efforts to strengthen the organization’s financial resources, increase contributions from member states and expand partnerships with the private sector.

Nzabamwita thanked Rwanda’s leadership for entrusting him with the diplomatic assignment. He was appointed Ambassador to Russia on 20 December 2024, succeeding Lt Gen Mushyo Kamanzi, who had served in Moscow since 2019. His responsibilities also include representing Rwanda in Armenia.

Rwanda and Armenia share several characteristics, including relatively small territories, limited natural resources and histories marked by genocide. Rwanda has increasingly presented its experience in governance, reconciliation and national development as an area where it can share lessons with other countries.

Armenia, located in the South Caucasus, covers approximately 26,743 square kilometres and has a population of about 3.1 million. It borders Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan and Georgia and has a long historical and cultural heritage.

The diplomatic engagement comes as Rwanda seeks stronger relations beyond its traditional partnerships, while Armenia continues to expand its international diplomatic and economic links.