Kenya is banking on the upcoming Africa Forward Summit 2026 to deliver major diplomatic, economic and investment gains, with the government projecting the meeting as a turning point in strengthening Africa’s voice in global governance and development financing.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the summit, scheduled for May 11–12 in Nairobi, is expected to bring together African Heads of State, leaders from France, development partners, investors, innovators and civil society representatives to chart a new framework for Africa’s global partnerships.

The government says expectations are particularly high because the summit will, for the first time, be held outside the Francophonie bloc, a move Kenya says reflects a shift toward a more inclusive and Africa-led partnership model.

According to the government, the summit comes at a strategic moment ahead of France’s G7 Presidency in June, offering African leaders an opportunity to push for reforms in global financial systems and greater representation in international decision-making platforms.

President William Ruto is expected to use the forum to advocate for equitable partnerships, sustainable financing and reforms that would give Africa a stronger voice in multilateral institutions.

Among the key expectations from the summit is the adoption of the Nairobi Declaration on Africa-France Partnership, which is expected to outline new areas of cooperation between African countries and France.

The government also expects the summit to unlock fresh investment and financing opportunities across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and digital transformation.

Youth empowerment and job creation are also central to the summit agenda, with the government expressing hope that engagements on innovation, entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence will create pathways for young Africans to participate more competitively in the global economy.

High-level discussions are expected to focus on reforming the global financial architecture, climate action and green financing, peace and security, agriculture and food security, blue economy development, digital transformation and strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

A special ministerial session will also push for reforms at the United Nations Security Council, including renewed calls for stronger African representation and discussions around the use of veto powers.

Kenya is further expecting the summit to strengthen bilateral cooperation with France through planned partnerships in tourism, blue economy development and energy collaboration, including discussions around peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

The government is preparing to commission a nuclear power plant in Siaya County in 2027, which is expected to add 1,000 megawatts to the national grid.

The summit programme will feature plenary sessions, business forums, youth innovation platforms, cultural showcases and sports engagements aimed at promoting investment and commercial opportunities linked to sports, including Kenya’s preparations for hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

A major cultural concert dubbed the Africa Forward Concert will also be held at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on May 12, while youth-focused activities will take place at University of Nairobi.

So far, the government says 55 confirmations have been received, including 30 Heads of State and Government from across Africa, alongside representatives from international organizations such as the African Union Commission, International Monetary Fund, United Nations Environment Programme and the African Development Bank.

The government has meanwhile warned Nairobi residents to expect temporary traffic disruptions between May 10 and May 12 due to movements of visiting dignitaries and summit activities around the city.