Manuela Roka Botey has been named prime minister of Equatorial Guinea, holding the role for the first time ever.

The news was made on Tuesday in a decree that was read aloud on national television by the nation's longtime leader, President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.

Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, the nation's vice-president and the president's son, congratulated the new prime minister.

He tweeted, "For the first time in Equatorial Guinea, a woman is appointed prime minister. This is further proof of the commitment to gender equality and opportunities in the country. Congratulations, Manuela Roka Botey!"

In 2020, Ms. Rotey, who had previously served as the minister of education, entered politics.

Francisco Pascual Obama Asue, a former premier who has held the seat since 2016, is replaced by her.