France and Kenya Sign Nairobi Declaration at Africa Forward Summit

The summit led to the signing of the Nairobi declaration by French President Macron and Kenyan President Ruto, setting the stage for enhanced bilateral cooperation. The agreement, to be presented at the upcoming G7, signals a strategic partnership shift. Attention now shifts to the implementation and follow-up measures discussed during the summit.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto signed the Nairobi Declaration at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, formalizing a bilateral partnership aimed at enhancing cooperation between France and Kenya. The agreement, intended to be presented at the upcoming G7 summit in Evian in June, marks a significant step in France’s strategic engagement with Africa, the summit co-hosts announced (France 24 EN).

The summit also unlocked massive investment commitments totaling nearly $50 billion. Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote revealed a $16 billion to $20 billion oil refinery project involving Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, while Macron announced $27 billion in joint projects between French and African companies across sectors such as industry and infrastructure (Semafor; Korea Herald).

Additional investments focused heavily on renewable energy, with France and African leaders pledging over $11 billion to accelerate Africa’s clean energy transition. Key players like TotalEnergies and Kenya Airways committed to sustainable initiatives including solar, wind, and sustainable aviation fuel, signaling a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability in the partnership (Mongabay).

Beyond economic commitments, the summit emphasized actionable outcomes, particularly in healthcare. Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama called for tangible steps to improve Africa’s health sector, urging cooperation to translate summit discussions into concrete healthcare improvements (MyJoyOnline).

Going forward, stakeholders will monitor the implementation of the Nairobi Declaration and the realization of investment projects, especially how they influence Africa’s industrial growth and energy transition. The outcomes of the forthcoming G7 summit, where the declaration will be presented, could further shape international support and collaboration frameworks between France and Africa.