Framework for Strengthening Africa-France Cooperation
The Africa Forward 2026 Summit convened heads of state, government officials, institutional representatives, and stakeholders from both the economic and civil society sectors. This collective effort culminated in the mobilization of €23 billion in investments aimed at fortifying partnerships and addressing pivotal development challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa.
Echoing previous France-Africa initiatives, Africa Forward 2026 represents a comprehensive strategy to enhance mutual investment and foster a balanced partnership founded on economic complementarities. Its primary objective is to facilitate the development of structured projects that not only promote sustainable growth but also bolster the resilience of African economies. Crucial issues such as energy access, industrial sovereignty, digital transformation, healthcare, and connectivity are being prioritized to ensure collaborative solutions are in place.
Within this framework, considerable emphasis is being placed on renewable energy and technological innovation. These sectors are seen as vital engines for accelerating the energy transition, promoting industrialization, and creating a more inclusive and competitive economic landscape across the continent.
Advancements in Marine Renewable Energy in Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean
Seaturns has actively engaged in the competitive landscape with the backing of Business France, an organization dedicated to supporting the international growth of French enterprises and enhancing economic cooperation between France and Africa.
The company remains committed to advancing marine renewable energy initiatives in southern Africa and the Indian Ocean, regions renowned for possessing some of the strongest wave energy resources globally. With an anticipated generation capacity of 400 TWh annually, Seaturns plans to introduce its innovative technology to several high-potential locations, including Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, Mayotte, Réunion Island, South Africa, Mozambique, and Namibia, where initial discussions are already underway.
This initiative reaffirms the operational progress within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, marked by the launch of Seaturns’ first pilot project in Mauritius. This project represents a significant step in the deployment of wave energy technology and its integration into the region’s overall energy strategy.
Strategic Meetings and Collaborative Opportunities
During the summit, Mr. Seaterns had the honor of engaging with notable figures, including Nicolas Forissier, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, along with Mr. Fabrice David, the Representative of the Minister for Agricultural Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries of Mauritius. Also present was Ms. Catherine Chabot, the Minister for Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, and International Climate and Nature Negotiations, who oversees matters related to oceans and fisheries.
This summit also provided invaluable opportunities for networking with various investors, industrial partners, and project developers eager to explore the potential of marine renewable energy across Africa and its island territories.
Through its innovative wave energy solutions, which are not only scalable but also address the current geopolitical challenges affecting energy costs, Seaturns is set to deliver a robust and competitive technology that promotes local industrial growth and job creation. This initiative positions France as a pivotal player in the global advancement of wave energy technologies.
