Kenya has intensified preparations to host the upcoming Africa-France Forward Summit, with the National Treasury confirming that final arrangements are in high gear ahead of the State Visit by French President Emmanuel Macron this weekend.
Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo said the government is working round the clock to ensure the summit delivers meaningful outcomes for both Kenya and its regional partners.
“Plans are in top gear for Kenya to host the Africa-France Summit, as we continue with preparatory engagements to firm up key deliverables,” Kiptoo said.
He spoke after a high-level meeting held at the National Treasury building, which brought together Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei and the French delegation led by Ambassador Arnaud Suquet.
The meeting was also attended by Blue Economy Principal Secretary Betsy Njagi, among other senior officials, with discussions focusing on progress in key bilateral agreements between Kenya and France.
Kiptoo noted that the summit set for May 11-12 will position Kenya as a strategic hub for investment, diplomacy and international cooperation.
“Kenya stands to gain immensely from the Africa-France Forum, which will further position the country as a key regional and global hub for investment, diplomacy, and strategic partnerships as we host high-level international delegations,” he said.
With just days to go before the summit, officials say attention is now shifting to finalising deliverables and ensuring seamless coordination among stakeholders.
“Six days to go until the summit. This is a pivotal moment for renewed partnerships between Kenya, France and the wider African region,” French embassy in Nairobi said in a post.
According to Sing’oei, France’s presence in the region reflects a broad-based partnership that goes beyond commerce.
“France’s economic presence in the region translates to a relationship that spans socially responsible and sustainable private investment, trade, and strong people-to-people ties,” he said.
These themes are expected to dominate discussions during the summit in Nairobi next week, where policymakers, investors and development partners will explore ways to deepen cooperation and respond to shifting regional dynamics.
Co-hosted by President William Ruto and Macron, the event focuses on new partnerships, economic growth, and innovation.
Stakeholders are also expected to examine opportunities in emerging sectors such as the blue economy, infrastructure development and green energy, areas where both Kenya and France have expressed mutual interest.
Kenya hosting the summit will not only strengthen bilateral relations but also elevate Kenya’s profile as a preferred destination for global partnerships.
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