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.
