French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Kenya on Sunday ahead of the Africa Forward Summit, where France aims to reshape its relationship with African nations through what it describes as a more balanced and equal partnership.
The summit, taking place in an English-speaking African nation for the first time, comes at a crucial moment for France as it works to regain influence on the continent after withdrawing troops from several West African countries last year.
For many years, France maintained deep political, economic and military ties with its former African colonies under the Françafrique policy — a system often criticised by African politicians and activists as overly controlling and patronising.
Speaking ahead of the summit, Kenyan President William Ruto said he and Macron believe the gathering could signal a new chapter in Africa-France relations. Macron also admitted that political dynamics in Africa are changing, noting that while France may differ with some governments, it remains committed to the people of the region.
The two-day summit opens on Monday in Nairobi and is expected to host about 30 African heads of state, with several leaders already in attendance.
Despite the diplomatic attention, the event has faced criticism within Kenya. Opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka questioned Kenya’s suitability as host, citing concerns over democracy and human rights ahead of the country’s 2027 elections. He argued that portraying Kenya as politically united would ignore existing internal tensions.
Defending his administration’s foreign policy, Ruto said Kenya is pursuing partnerships across the globe without aligning strictly with either Western or Eastern powers, insisting the country is “looking forward.”
During Macron’s visit, France and Kenya signed 11 agreements spanning transport, agriculture and plans for a nuclear energy project. Macron said the deals are intended to boost human capital development, reflecting the summit’s emphasis on innovation and Africa’s youthful population.
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