Macron seeks to cement Africa legacy with Kenya summit

President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Kenya, Egypt, and Ethiopia signifies a crucial moment in France's evolving relationship with Africa. As his second term nears its end, Macron is keen to solidify his legacy by demonstrating a renewed and more equitable partnership with the continent. The "Africa Forward Summit" in Nairobi, notably held in an English-speaking nation, underscores this shift, moving away from the historical "Francafrique" model towards broader engagement.

This initiative comes at a time when France's influence in parts of Africa, particularly the Sahel, has waned. The withdrawal of French forces from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, and the subsequent pivot of these nations towards Russia, represent a significant geopolitical challenge. Macron's administration has acknowledged past colonial-era abuses, a step towards reconciliation, and has facilitated the return of looted artworks, signaling a departure from old patterns.

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The Africa Forward summit marks a major milestone in relations between France and the African continent.

However, the summit's focus on economic development and cross-border investment in Nairobi is particularly noteworthy. It presents an opportunity for France to reassert its economic ties and offer an alternative to the growing presence of China and Russia. For African leaders, this engagement offers a chance to leverage French expertise and capital while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. The success of this "report card on his Africa policy" will be closely watched, both within France and across the continent, as it shapes the future of Franco-African relations.

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report card on his Africa policy