The summit, branded “Africa Forward”, is being held in Nairobi, Kenya, an anglophone nation. This represents a break from tradition, as previous France–Africa summits were mostly hosted in France or francophone African countries.

The event brings together more than 30 African heads of state and government, along with business leaders and representatives from civil society. It focuses on redefining cooperation between France and Africa, with an emphasis on investment, innovation, youth engagement, and economic partnerships rather than traditional aid-based relations.

French President Emmanuel Macron has used the summit to underline a “new era” in France’s relationship with Africa. He emphasized that France is no longer limiting its engagement to its former francophone sphere of influence, but is instead seeking broader partnerships across the entire continent, including anglophone countries.

According to officials, choosing Kenya as the host reflects a deliberate strategic shift. It signals France’s intention to diversify its African partnerships, especially at a time when its influence in parts of West and Central Africa has been challenged by political changes and growing anti-French sentiment.

The summit also highlights Kenya’s rising diplomatic role in Africa, with President William Ruto positioning the country as a regional hub for international dialogue and cooperation.

Overall, the Nairobi summit is seen as a symbolic moment: France is moving away from its traditional francophone-centered diplomacy and embracing a more pan-African and multilingual approach to its relations with the continent