NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto on Monday night hosted a State Banquet at State House Nairobi for Heads of State and Government attending the inaugural Africa Forward Summit 2026, calling for a renewed era of cooperation between Africa and global partners, particularly France.
In his address, Ruto said the gathering symbolised a turning point in Africa’s global partnerships, anchored on mutual respect, shared prosperity, and opportunity.
“Tonight in Nairobi, we gather not only to celebrate the enduring bonds between Africa and France, but also to usher in a bold new era of partnership anchored in shared prosperity, mutual respect, and opportunity for our citizens,” he said.
The high-level dinner brought together leaders from across Africa and France for a closed-door engagement aimed at strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable development.
At State House, Ruto said Kenya was honoured to host the leaders and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to deeper continental and global collaboration.
“I had the honour of hosting a State Banquet for the Heads of State and Government attending the inaugural Africa Forward Summit 2026,” he said.
He added that Kenya remains committed to advancing Africa’s economic transformation and global competitiveness through strategic partnerships.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I extend a warm welcome and deepest appreciation for your presence, engagement, and commitment to advancing a stronger and more prosperous future for Africa and its global partners,” Ruto said.
The President emphasised that the summit should strengthen unity of purpose among African nations and their partners, especially in addressing development challenges and unlocking investment opportunities across the continent.
“May this summit strengthen our common resolve and deepen the spirit of cooperation that unites us,” he said.
The Africa Forward Summit 2026 has attracted more than 30 African leaders alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, marking one of the most significant diplomatic gatherings hosted in Nairobi in recent years.
The summit is expected to focus on investment, energy transition, artificial intelligence, infrastructure development, and reforms in global financial systems to improve Africa’s access to affordable capital.
Kenya, which is co-hosting the summit, has positioned itself as a key gateway for expanded Africa–Europe cooperation under President Ruto’s foreign policy agenda.
