French President Emmanuel Macron during the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on Monday, May 11, 2026. [PCS]
French President Emmanuel Macron seized the microphone at a University of Nairobi youth forum on Monday and rebuked delegates for making noise during the Africa Forward Summit.
The incident occurred during a panel discussion attended by President William Ruto and Macron, where the two leaders engaged young people on technology, education reforms, innovation and Africa's digital future.
As noise levels rose while a speaker addressed the audience, Macron walked to the stage, took the microphone and expressed frustration over the disruption.
"I'm sorry, but it is impossible to speak about culture and to have people like that, super inspired, coming here, making a speech with such noise. This is a total lack of respect," said Macron.
