Nairobi is set to welcome the landmark “Africa Forward” summit on 11–12 May 2026, French and Kenyan ambassadors announced during a joint media briefing in Kigali. Co-hosted by Presidents Emmanuel Macron and William Ruto, the summit promises a fresh chapter in France-Africa relations one rooted in equality, innovation, and tangible results.
The media encounter was co-animated by France’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Aurélie Royet-Gounin, and Kenya’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Janet Mwawasi Oben. Ambassador Royet-Gounin described the gathering as a significant milestone:
“This summit marks a new stage in the relations between France and the African continent, with a strong focus on more balanced and mutually beneficial partnerships.”
Ambassador Oben expressed Kenya’s bold vision for the event:“The Kenya wishes this summit to position Nairobi as a major hub of innovation and investment in Africa. We expect concrete results for entrepreneurs and young innovators through partnerships, financing, and knowledge exchange.”
She further stressed the importance of sustainable and inclusive development across the continent.
Titled “Africa Forward: partnerships between Africa and France for Innovation and Growth,” the two-day summit will unite heads of state, business leaders, youth, artists, civil society, and diasporas.
Day one (“Inspire and Connect”) will feature a high-level business forum showcasing Franco-African private sector successes, alongside vibrant sessions on youth, sports, and creative industries.
Day two will focus on development financing, youth employment, and global competitiveness addressing the urgent need to create jobs for 450 million young Africans by 2025.
Echoing President Macron’s landmark 2017 speech in Ouagadougou, the summit embodies a spirit of shared ambition:“You will never read lessons from me… But you will always find a shared demand, because I have the will to succeed with you.”
Outcomes from Nairobi are expected to directly shape discussions at France’s G7 Summit in Evian in June 2026, giving African priorities greater prominence on the global stage. With innovation, youth empowerment, and concrete partnerships at its heart, “Africa Forward” stands as a powerful symbol of renewed hope and collaboration between France and Africa.
Naomi Irakoze Mugaragu.