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The Nairobi Declaration prioritises parity, mutual respect, and co-investment as EUR 23 billion in deals are announced across key sectors.
The Africa Forward Summit came to a close in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 12, with over 30 African Heads of State and Government endorsing an actionable framework for a renewed Africa–France partnership. The new approach is anchored on parity, mutual respect, co-investment, and tangible delivery.
Co-chaired by H.E. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, and H.E. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, the Summit brought together business leaders, development finance institutions, innovators, youth leaders, and civil society representatives from Africa, France, and around the world.
A Historic Shift Toward Future-Oriented Cooperation
Hosted for the first time in non-Francophone Africa, the Summit marked a deliberate shift away from historical dependency models. The focus is now on shared prosperity, industrial transformation, innovation, and sustainable development.
Leaders’ Statements: From Conversation to Implementation
Speaking at the closing ceremony, President William Samoei Ruto said:
“Africa is no longer seeking partnerships built on dependency or historical obligation. We are building partnerships grounded in mutual respect, shared prosperity, and co-investment. The Nairobi Declaration reflects a shared commitment to move from conversation to implementation and to position Africa as a central driver of global growth and innovation.”
President Emmanuel Macron added:
“France believes in a renewed partnership with Africa focusing on delivering peace, prosperity, and sovereignty for all. The Africa Forward Summit was a great demonstration that together, as partners, we can empower each other to devise our own solutions, harness our resources and champion our talents. This is the future of Africa–France relations.”
Business Forum Secures Over EUR 23 Billion in Commitments
The Heads of State and Government Summit built on momentum generated during the Africa Forward: Inspire & Connect Business Forum, held on May 11 at the University of Nairobi. That forum convened over 7,000 business leaders and resulted in more than EUR 23 billion in announced investment commitments, partnerships, and commercial agreements.
Deals spanned key sectors including:
- Energy
- Infrastructure
- Manufacturing
- Agribusiness
- Financial services
- Digital innovation
- Logistics
What Comes Next: G7 Summit in France
The Africa Forward Summit marks a defining moment in repositioning Africa–France cooperation around practical delivery, co-industrialization, and measurable partnerships capable of creating jobs, expanding opportunity, and strengthening economic resilience.
This ambitious agenda will be championed by France and Kenya at the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, from June 15–17, 2026.
