President William Ruto hosts a state banquet during the Africa Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026. / PCS
Leaders from across Africa gathered at State House, Nairobi, on Monday evening for a glamorous State Banquet hosted by William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto during the inaugural Africa Forward Summit 2026.
The high-profile dinner brought together Heads of State and Government attending the summit, which seeks to strengthen cooperation between African nations and France through partnerships focused on trade, investment, innovation and shared prosperity.
In his address to the guests, President Ruto said the gathering symbolised not only the enduring relationship between Africa and France but also the beginning of a new chapter of cooperation.
“Tonight in Nairobi, we gather not only to celebrate the enduring bonds between Africa and France, but also to usher in a bold new era of partnership anchored in shared prosperity, mutual respect, and opportunity for our citizens,” Ruto said.
President William Ruto hosts a state banquet during the Africa Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026. / PCSThe president noted that Kenya was honoured to host leaders from across the continent and thanked them for their commitment to advancing a stronger and more prosperous future for Africa.
“At State House Nairobi, I had the honour of hosting a State Banquet for the Heads of State and Government attending the inaugural Africa Forward Summit 2026,” he said.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I extend a warm welcome and deepest appreciation for your presence, engagement, and commitment to advancing a stronger and more prosperous future for Africa and its global partners.”
The black-tie dinner was marked by elegance and diplomacy, with guests arriving dressed in formal attire for the evening occasion.
President William Ruto, French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Rachel Ruto engaging at the State Banquet on May 11, 2026 / PCS President Ruto wore a black suit paired with a white shirt and bow tie, while Emmanuel Macron opted for a black suit, white shirt and black tie.
Macron drew applause from guests after opening his speech with fluent Swahili.
President Ruto expressed optimism that the summit would deepen cooperation and reinforce a shared commitment towards sustainable development and economic transformation across the continent.
“May this summit strengthen our common resolve and deepen the spirit of cooperation that unites us. Karibuni Kenya,” he said.
Guests at the State Banquet during the Africa Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026 / PCS
President William Ruto hosts a state banquet during the Africa Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026 / PCS
French President Emmanuel Macron speaking at the State Banquet during the iAfrica Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026 / PCS
First Lady Rachel Ruto at State Banquet during the Africa Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026 / PCS
President William Ruto and First Lady Mama Rachel host the State Banquet during the Africa Forward Summit at State House on May 11, 2026 / PCS
