At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, French President Emmanuel Macron aimed to strengthen ties with English-speaking nations but faced backlash due to logistical failures and the absence of South Africa, raising questions about France's influence in Africa.

The recent “Africa Forward Summit” in Nairobi was marketed as the dawn of a “new model of partnership” between France and Africa.

Co-hosted by President William Ruto and President Emmanuel Macron, the inaugural summit marked a deliberate pivot in France-Africa relations.

The commentary highlights Kenya’s role in strengthening Africa–France relations through the Africa Forward summit.