Kenya to host Africa Forward Summit in joint initiative with France

International Desk: PNN

Kenya is organizing the Africa Forward 2026 summit in partnership with France. The event, the first of its kind outside Francophone countries, has drawn both diplomatic praise and criticism.

Political leaders and business representatives from various African countries will attend. While organizers view it as a new chapter in African economic and strategic cooperation, critics warn it may open the door to neo-colonial influence.

Under President William Ruto, Kenya has strengthened ties with Western countries in recent years. The country is positioning itself as one of the most stable and investment-friendly nations in Africa. Meanwhile, France is seeking to expand its influence in East Africa after losing ground in West Africa.

In April 2026, France and Kenya signed a defense cooperation agreement. Earlier, joint military training exercises were held in Mombasa involving French forces and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

The agreement includes cooperation in maritime security, intelligence sharing, peacekeeping, and disaster response. Hundreds of French troops are already stationed in Kenya, and more are expected to be deployed.

However, some provisions of the agreement have raised concerns. Critics argue that legal protections for French troops could undermine Kenya’s sovereignty.

Kenyan parliamentary members have denied these claims, saying serious crimes would still be handled under Kenyan law.

France is currently one of Kenya’s largest foreign investors. Over the past decade, French investments have reached several billion euros, with more than 100 French companies operating in Kenya.

Supporters say the partnership promotes economic development, infrastructure investment, and security cooperation, especially in counter-terrorism efforts alongside the US and UK.

However, critics argue that while French companies benefit easily, Kenyan citizens do not receive similar opportunities in France.

Analysts say the summit could elevate France-Kenya relations but also deepen debates about foreign influence and sovereignty in Africa.

Overall, the Africa Forward 2026 summit is seen not just as an economic event but also as a sign of emerging geopolitical shifts in Africa.