Speaking at the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, aimed at renewing France’s engagement with the African continent, French President Emmanuel Macron urged investment in Africa and put forward France’s new legislation easing the return of objects looted during the colonial era.
Issued on: 11/05/2026 - 18:06
Africa "needs investment to become more sovereign", with aid being replaced by economic opportunities, Macron said at the economic summit on Monday, as he announced €23 billion of investment for Africa.
Speaking at the University of Nairobi at the start of the two-day summit, he said the funds would include €14 billion in private and public investments by French entities, and €9 billion by African investors, focused on energy transition, digital and AI, the maritime economy and agriculture.
They would create 250,000 direct jobs in France and Africa, Macron said.
