Macron, Ruto speak at Africa Forward Summit closing session in Nairobi
10:07, 13/05/2026, WednesdayU: Update: 16:53, 13/05/2026, Wednesday
Yeni Şafak
Lucas MukasaAA
French President Emmanuel Macron (L) and Kenyan President William Ruto (R) deliver speeches during the closing session of the second day of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 12, 2026.French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto delivered speeches during the closing session of the second day of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 12, 2026. The summit focused on Africa's economic development and international partnerships.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto deliver speeches during the closing session of the second day of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 12, 2026. The summit brought together African and international leaders to discuss economic transformation, investment, and sustainable development.
Africa Forward Summit
The Africa Forward Summit serves as a platform for dialogue between African leaders and international partners on issues including trade, infrastructure, technology, and climate resilience. Kenya, as one of Africa's largest economies, has positioned itself as a hub for such international forums.
Franco-Kenyan relations
Macron's participation highlights France's engagement with East Africa. Bilateral relations between France and Kenya have grown in recent years, with cooperation in defense, renewable energy, and technology sectors.
Regional context
The summit comes amid global economic challenges following the Middle East conflict, which has disrupted energy supplies and trade routes. African nations have faced rising food and energy prices as a result.