French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto announced expanded bilateral cooperation in Nairobi ahead of the Africa Forward Summit 2026, with Macron describing the past seven years as “quite a journey” in which both countries “increased” their relationship and cooperation on African and global issues.
Speaking at a joint conference on Sunday (10 May), Ruto said the Kenya-France relationship was “special” and “mutually beneficial”, adding that the summit reflected “a broader much more inclusive relationship with Africa” based on “respect for sovereignty” and African priorities.
Key developments:
- Kenya and France signed agreements covering transport, digital infrastructure, energy, health, education and climate cooperation.
- A Ksh.12.5 billion Nairobi Commuter Rail modernisation project will expand rail links across Nairobi and surrounding towns.
- The countries agreed to develop logistics and port infrastructure through a joint venture valued at approximately Ksh.104 billion.
- France will support Kenya’s digital transformation, artificial intelligence development and civil nuclear energy ambitions.
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