For the first time outside France or any francophone country, Kenya will in 2026 host the Africa-France summit, President William Ruto announced on Friday on the sidelines of 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto said during the Paris Pact for the People and the Planet Coalition leaders’ lunch, hosted by President Macron.
The Africa-France Summit brings together Heads of State, civil society leaders, and private sector representatives to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing the world today.
Central to the discussions will be the reform of global financial institutions and governance systems in order to more effectively address the ongoing planetary crisis, including climate change and environmental degradation.
“Hosting this summit not only enhances our diplomatic stature but also places us at the heart of shaping the future of Africa-France relations. We look forward to welcoming the world and building on our shared goals for a better planet,” said Hussein Mohamed, Kenya’s State House Spokesman.
“The summit will provide an opportunity to spotlight Africa’s role in driving global solutions, and Kenya is proud to be at the forefront,” he said.
He noted that hosting the summit in Nairobi underscores the evolving dynamics of Africa’s relationship with France, extending beyond traditional Francophone ties.
