CNN international correspondent, Larry Madowo has stirred debate online after criticising the government over the condition of a podium used by President William Ruto during an event attended by French President Emmanuel Macron.

The incident happened ahead of the opening of the Africa Forward Summit at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, where the two leaders were expected to address delegates and guests.
Madowo shared a photo highlighting the faded national emblem on the podium and questioned why such an oversight happened during a major international event.
“Yaani tuko na wageni na mnachoma hivi?”
Read Also
All set for second edition of Meru University Mt Kenya Run on Saturday Athletics
How Ondego trio are taking Kenyan rugby by storm Rugby
The KPL 202672027 kick off hangs in the balance as court cases intesify Football
                                          Larry Madowo // Faceboo

Summit Draws Regional Attention

The Africa Forward Summit has attracted attention across the continent because Kenya became the first English-speaking African country to host the France-Africa gathering in East Africa.

The summit focuses on economic cooperation, innovation, governance and cultural exchange between African nations and France. Several leaders and analysts have described the meeting as an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic and trade ties.

However, critics have questioned France’s growing influence in African affairs, arguing that such engagements may give European powers greater political leverage on the continent.

The summit also featured the Africa Forward concert, with performances from Kenyan singer Bien and Nigerian star Yemi.

Larry Madowo // Facebook

Kenyans Flood Comment Sections

While some users admitted they had not noticed the damaged podium initially, others joked that the government could now budget billions for renovations.
One user, Wangui Wa Mwangi, commented:
“Larry, stop. You want him to see an opportunity ya kutenga one billion to renovate it?”
Another user, Frank Phix, joked:
“1bn for renovation loading...”
Others turned the discussion political, with Awinja Janet writing:
“Everything screams wantam.”
Kepha Oganda noted that many people only realised the issue after Madowo pointed it out.
“Chances are nobody noticed it because it also took me time to find the fault.”
Another comment that attracted reactions came from M’ngai G Nelson, who wrote:
“Representing the state of the State.”
                                          Larry Madowo // Facebook

In Other News

Investigations cited by the journalist showed that hundreds of Africans from countries including Kenya and Nigeria were allegedly promised civilian jobs before being pushed into frontline combat in Ukraine.
A Tanzanian fighter interviewed during the investigation claimed he received an upfront payment of $35,000 (about KSh 4.5 million) and a monthly salary of $3,000 (around KSh 380,000), disputing claims that recruits were not being paid.