Africa Forward Summit 2026: Ruto, Macron Host Nairobi Delegates

Nairobi will host the Africa Forward Summit 2026 from 10 to 12 May, with President William Ruto of Kenya and President Emmanuel Macron of France serving as joint hosts. Approximately 4,000 delegates from African nations and France—including heads of state, senior government officials, business leaders, innovators, development partners, civil‑society representatives and journalists—are expected to attend.

The three‑day summit aims to foster high‑level dialogue on Africa’s economic transformation, strategic partnerships and sustainable development. Organisers say the agenda will cover a range of rural‑development issues, such as mobilising private capital, strengthening partnerships in sustainable agriculture, and expanding the blue economy. Additional focus areas include global health, artificial intelligence and other emerging sectors.

During a media roundtable convened by the Africa Forward Summit Secretariat, officials highlighted specific opportunities in the blue economy, agriculture, and AI‑driven innovation. The summit will also address trade and investment expansion, with an emphasis on deepening Africa’s global partnerships and accelerating innovation across key sectors.

The event will conclude on Tuesday, 12 May, with the adoption of the Nairobi Declaration. The declaration, a joint commitment by Kenya and France, will prioritise cooperation for shared prosperity and set the framework for future collaboration between the two countries and their partners.

The Africa Forward Summit 2026 represents a coordinated effort to align public and private resources toward inclusive growth on the continent, positioning Nairobi as a hub for dialogue on Africa’s economic future.