Andrew Wasike
May 11, 2026•Updated: May 11, 2026
French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday underscored the urgency for enhanced collaboration in technology, energy, and innovation between Africa and Europe at the Africa Progress Summit, taking place in Nairobi, Kenya.
During a prominent youth engagement forum at the University of Nairobi, Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto addressed mutual challenges faced by both continents in reducing their dependence on advanced technologies from major global powers.
Macron noted, “A significant portion of technological solutions currently comes from the US or China.” He emphasized the collective task of fostering strategic autonomy in both Europe and Africa, asserting a shared commitment to advancing investment in critical sectors.
The French leader highlighted the essential role of substantial investments in infrastructure and energy systems to catalyze advancements in artificial intelligence and digital capabilities across both regions.
He stated, “Without energy, we cannot establish the necessary AI infrastructure or computing capacity,” advocating for heightened investment in renewable energy and diverse energy sources.
In addition, Macron announced initiatives aimed at strengthening educational ties between French and African universities, as well as expanding technical training programs throughout Africa.
He expressed determination, stating, “We will accelerate this trend in investment,” revealing that the Orange Digital Center plans to train one million African youth by 2030, facilitated by the establishment of 50 new digital centers.
President Ruto of Kenya emphasized his country’s commitment to reforming education to equip young individuals for emerging global industries. He said, “Our young people are the present and the future, and we are dedicated to providing the support they require to transform their ideas into viable solutions for our diverse challenges.”
Ruto also announced a new partnership with France to create the University of Nairobi Science and Engineering Complex, which he described as a “center of research excellence” that will benefit both Kenya and the broader region.
Attendance of African and Global Leaders at the Summit
The two-day summit, co-hosted by Kenya and France, assembled heads of state, business leaders, development partners, and technology innovators to discuss trade, industrial growth, and investment prospects across Africa.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres was among the prominent attendees arriving in Nairobi for the event.
Other dignitaries included Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senegalese President Bashir Diomai Faye, Gabonese President Brice Origui Nguema, Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, Liberian President Joseph Boakai, and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara.
Morocco’s presence was marked by Prime Minister Aziz Akhanoush, while Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius also participated in the summit.
Organizers indicated that over 30 African heads of state and government are set to engage in the Africa Forward Summit, concentrating on increasing investments, fortifying industrial partnerships, and fast-tracking infrastructure and technological development across the continent.
