Kenya has been chosen to host the Africa-France Summit in 2026, marking the first time this prestigious event will occur outside France or a Francophone African country.
The announcement was made by President William Ruto of Kenya and President Emmanuel Macron of France during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, specifically at the Paris Pact for the People and the Planet Coalition leaders’ lunch.
State House Spokesman Hussein Mohamed expressed the significance of this decision, stating, “This is a historic milestone for Kenya and a reflection of our continued role as a leader in global conversations around climate action and financial reform. The summit will provide an opportunity to spotlight Africa’s role in driving global solutions, and Kenya is proud to be at the forefront.”
Established in 1973, the Africa-France Summit gathers Heads of State, civil society leaders, and private sector representatives to address pressing global challenges. The upcoming summit will focus on reforming global financial institutions and governance systems to tackle the ongoing planetary crisis, which encompasses climate change and environmental degradation.
This collaboration between Kenya and France highlights the deepening partnership aimed at championing global climate and financial reforms. Both nations have been actively advocating for changes that address the needs of the planet and support vulnerable communities affected by various crises.
Mohamed emphasized the importance of Kenya’s role in these international discussions: “Hosting this summit not only enhances our diplomatic stature but also places us at the heart of shaping the future of Africa-France relations. We look forward to welcoming the world and building on our shared goals for a better planet.”
This milestone positions Kenya as a crucial player in global diplomatic and environmental efforts and reflects the evolving dynamics of Africa’s relationship with France, moving beyond traditional Francophone ties.
The 2026 Africa-France Summit is anticipated to serve as a dynamic platform for innovative dialogue and solutions to the challenges facing Africa and the global community at large.