NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has announced that Nairobi will host the upcoming Africa Forward Summit on May 11–12, marking a historic first for the high-level forum.
The summit, traditionally held in Francophone countries, will for the first time take place in a non-Francophone nation — a move seen as a significant step in expanding its continental reach and influence.
Speaking after a meeting with French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet at State House, Ruto said Kenya and France are working closely to ensure the success of the event.
The President noted that the summit will focus on key global and regional issues, including reform of the international financial system and the need to build sustainable and secure economic partnerships.
Kenya and France, he added, continue to enjoy strong diplomatic and economic ties, with Paris emerging as one of Nairobi’s leading investors.
Ruto said both countries are expanding cooperation in strategic sectors such as green industrialisation, the blue economy, agriculture, health, infrastructure, education, and the digital economy.
Analysts say hosting the summit positions Kenya as a key diplomatic and economic hub in Africa, while also amplifying its voice in shaping global development conversations.
