Emmanuel Macron has begun a high-profile visit to Kenya ahead of the Africa Forward Summit, a gathering aimed at presenting France’s evolving relationship with African countries as one based on partnership rather than dominance.
The summit, being hosted in Nairobi for the first time in an English-speaking African country, comes at a critical moment for France as it seeks to rebuild influence across the continent following the withdrawal of French troops from several West African nations last year.
France’s historical relationship with many African states, particularly former colonies, has long been shaped by the policy known as “Françafrique,” which combined economic, political and military influence. However, critics across the continent have increasingly challenged what they viewed as an overbearing and unequal relationship.
Speaking during the visit, Kenyan President William Ruto described the summit as a potential “turning point” in strengthening cooperation between Africa and France.
Macron acknowledged changing geopolitical realities and the need for a different approach. “France can disagree with governments but never disagrees with the people,” he said while discussing France’s future engagement with African nations.
Investment Agreements Signed
Ahead of the summit, France and Kenya signed 11 agreements covering sectors including transport, agriculture and energy.
Among the most notable proposals is cooperation on a planned nuclear energy project aimed at supporting Kenya’s long-term energy ambitions.
Macron said the investments are intended to strengthen “human capital” and support innovation, particularly among Africa’s rapidly growing youth population.
The French leader’s visit marks only the second official trip by a French president to Kenya, highlighting Nairobi’s growing diplomatic and economic significance within Africa.
Opposition Raises Governance Concerns
Despite the optimism surrounding the summit, the event has also attracted criticism from sections of Kenya’s opposition.
Opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka questioned the decision to host the summit in Kenya, arguing that the country continues to face democratic and human rights concerns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“There will be an air of pretence that we are a cohesive nation,” Musyoka said. “We know that is far from the truth.”
President Ruto, however, insisted Kenya remains committed to building broad international partnerships without aligning itself strictly with either Western or Eastern powers.
“We are neither looking East nor West,” he said. “We are looking forward.”
The two-day Africa Forward Summit is expected to host about 30 African heads of state and government officials, with discussions expected to focus on trade, investment, security cooperation and Africa’s changing role in the global economy.
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