Kenya is set to host the Africa-France Summit in 2026, marking the first time the summit will be held outside France or Francophone Africa since its inception in 1973.
The announcement was made by President William Ruto and France President Emmanuel Macron during the United Nations General Assembly 2024 in New York, United States.
A statement read by State House Spokesman Hussein Mohamed hailed the announcement as a historic milestone for Kenya.
A historic summit
“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,” he said.
The summit was first held in France in 1973, and it brings together Heads of State and government, private sector players, and civil society representatives to discuss the issues facing the world today.
The summit also provides an opportunity for France to push for changes that improve the needs of the planet and vulnerable communities, including climate change, environmental degradation, and financial reforms.
The discussions are a continuation of the Paris Pact for People and the Planet, and the Nairobi Declaration that was agreed upon during the Africa Climate Summit held in Nairobi in 2023.
Commitment to reforms
A joint statement by the two leaders emphasized their commitment to multilateralism. “The summit will seek to advance reforms that address global financial inequalities and environmental crises, aligning with both the Paris Pact and the Nairobi Declaration,” the statement read.
In recent years, Nairobi has hosted high-level delegations, including the inaugural Africa Climate Summit held at the KICC, which attracted Heads of State from around the world. The Africa-France Summit will cement Kenya’s position as a hub for global issues.
The summit will offer a significant economic opportunity for the local economy. The influx of Heads of Statements, high-ranking government officials, and international delegates will boost Kenya’s hospitality and tourism sectors.