Nairobi: Kenya and France have signed 11 agreements aimed at strengthening economic, diplomatic, and development cooperation between the two nations. The agreements cover key sectors including maritime affairs, nuclear energy, digital transformation, transport, renewable energy, aviation fuel production, education, infrastructure, and trade.
According to Kenya News Agency, among the notable deals signed was a partnership on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, support for Kenya's digital transformation agenda, and a major agreement to modernize Nairobi's commuter rail system at a cost of 83 million Euros. Other agreements included the expansion of port infrastructure at the Port of Mombasa, the development of wind energy projects, climate and weather monitoring cooperation, and the promotion of Kenya's premium Purple Tea in French markets.
Kenya and France also agreed to collaborate in education and research, including the construction of a new engineering and science complex at the University of Nairobi. Speaking during the signing ceremony at State House Nairobi, President William Ruto described the agreements as a major step in deepening Kenya-France relations and advancing investment, innovation, and sustainable development. He noted that France has remained one of Kenya's key economic partners since independence in 1963, particularly through investments in renewable energy, urban transport, and climate-related projects.
President Ruto said the Nairobi commuter rail upgrade, expansion of digital infrastructure, and renewable energy investments would help position Kenya as a regional hub for technology, logistics, and manufacturing. He also emphasized the importance of improving air connectivity between Kenya and France to boost trade, tourism, and exports.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised Kenya as a strategic partner in Africa and announced more than one billion Euros in French investments across infrastructure, energy, education, and digital development projects. President Macron highlighted French support for Kenya's engineering and technology sectors through partnerships with universities and research institutions.
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to climate action, reform of the global financial system, and stronger Africa-Europe cooperation. They said the Africa-France Summit in Nairobi would focus on practical partnerships, investment, innovation, and sustainable growth across the continent. The Africa Forward Summit 2026 is being held today and tomorrow and is a focal point for the major MoUs and bilateral agreements between African nations and France, aimed at strengthening economic, technological, and infrastructure partnerships. The Africa Forward Summit is running under the theme 'Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth.'