RRI.CO.ID. Jakarta - France is holding a big meeting called the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, Kenya, on Monday. It is the first time France is holding this kind of event in an English-speaking country.

The two-day summit shows that France wants to build stronger ties with East Africa. This comes after recent problems in the Sahel region. French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto will attend, along with about 30 other leaders.

Around 1,500 to 2,000 businesspeople, investors, young people, artists, and athletes are also expected to join. Based on RFI reports, The goal is to bring together government leaders, companies, and civil society.

France’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Pascal Confavreux, said it will be both a political and business meeting, with open discussions for everyone.

The summit will talk about artificial intelligence, digital technology, health, and local production of important goods. Other topics include creative industries, culture, and sports as ways to create jobs and grow the economy.

Energy, infrastructure, transport, farming, and food systems will also be discussed.

Macron says this summit shows his new approach to Africa since 2017. After several years without meetings because of Covid-19, France now wants more direct connections between people, not just governments. He also wants to show that France is moving past its colonial history by returning artworks and reforming the CFA franc.

As quoted by RFI, Some experts say the summit’s success depends on real action. They welcome the focus on investment and climate, but note that African leaders are still cautious. Kenya sees the summit as a chance to show its role as a hub for business, technology, and finance in Africa.

France is already Kenya’s fourth-largest foreign investor, especially in energy. Over 140 French companies work in Kenya. But advisors say people will watch closely to see if the summit leads to real support for climate projects and economic growth.

They also want the meeting to discuss global issues like the Iran-U.S. conflict, which can affect oil prices and food costs in Africa.

Source : RFI.fr