Rwanda National Olympic Committee 1st vice president Phophina Gashugi has been appointed head of the sport and environment commission at the Association of National Olympic Committees in Africa (Anoca).

This is the first time a Rwandan is serving in that position on the continental body.

 "I am delighted about this achievement. It is a pleasure to represent Rwanda at this level and I am going to work hard to fulfill our mandate,” Gashugi said after receiving news of his appointment.

Gashugi will work alongside three other members of the commission Francis K. Paul (Kenya), Omar Diagne Seydina (Senegal) and Sam Gideon (South Africa). Gashugi is the only female member on this commission.

Gashugi and her team are currently working on a paper presentation on sport and environment in Africa that will be showcased at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games in Brazil. 

The sport and environment commission was included in rule 2 of the Olympic Charter in 1995 after recognising the importance of the environment and sustainable development.