Nairobi, Kenya – The Élysée Palace has appointed seasoned diplomat Jérémie Blin to oversee preparations for the highly anticipated 2026 Africa-France Summit. The event, set to take place in Nairobi, aims to strengthen ties between France and Africa, focusing on key issues such as climate change, economic development, education, and security. Blin, who brings extensive experience in African affairs, will lead the coordination of the summit’s logistics, agenda, and diplomatic engagements.
The Africa-France Summit is expected to draw more than 3,000 delegates, including heads of state, business leaders, and representatives from international organizations. The decision to hold the summit in Nairobi underscores Kenya’s status as a regional leader and its strategic importance in Africa-France relations. The summit will provide a platform for dialogue on mutual challenges and opportunities, shaping the future of collaboration between France and African nations.
Jérémie Blin, formerly the French Ambassador to Burundi, has a proven track record in fostering strong diplomatic ties across Africa. During his tenure in Burundi, he played a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing development initiatives.
His recent involvement in Kenya as part of a delegation accompanying the Secretary of State for Francophonie further highlights his active role in enhancing France’s engagement with Africa. As summit coordinator, Blin is tasked with ensuring seamless execution and meaningful outcomes for all stakeholders.
The 2026 summit will address a broad spectrum of critical issues. The agenda, designed to reflect shared priorities, includes sessions on climate action, economic growth, youth empowerment, cultural exchange, and regional security.
Efforts to combat climate change will feature prominently, with France expected to announce a €1 billion commitment to renewable energy projects across Africa. The summit will explore joint strategies to address deforestation, water scarcity, and carbon emissions, advancing sustainable development goals.
On economic development, discussions will aim to expand trade relations and foster investment in key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
Current trade between France and Africa is valued at €60 billion annually, with significant potential for growth through enhanced collaboration. France is also expected to unveil a €3 billion package for infrastructure development, including transportation and energy projects.
Youth empowerment and education will be a cornerstone of the summit, with France pledging €500 million to scholarships and technical training programs. This initiative aims to equip Africa’s growing youth population with the skills needed to drive innovation and economic progress.
The summit will also spotlight cultural exchange, with a focus on promoting Francophonie and celebrating African art, music, and literature. France views cultural diplomacy as a vital component of its relationship with Africa, fostering deeper understanding and collaboration.
Regional security will be another key theme, as leaders discuss collective efforts to address terrorism, organized crime, and political instability. France plans to expand its security cooperation with African nations, offering military training and logistical support to strengthen local capacities.
France’s financial commitments are expected to total several billion euros, including €2 billion for health initiatives aimed at improving access to vaccines and healthcare infrastructure. Another €1 billion will be dedicated to advancing digital transformation, with plans to expand internet access and foster technological innovation across the continent.
The summit’s location in Nairobi reflects a strategic choice, recognizing Kenya’s role as a gateway to East Africa and a hub for innovation and economic growth. The event also signals France’s intent to recalibrate its relationship with Africa, moving toward a more equal partnership.
The summit comes at a time of shifting dynamics in Africa-France relations. France faces increasing competition from other global powers, including China and Russia, and growing scrutiny of its historical role in the continent.
Blin’s leadership will be critical in navigating these complexities, ensuring that the summit delivers tangible outcomes and reinforces trust between France and its African partners.
The 2026 Africa-France Summit represents a significant opportunity to redefine Franco-African relations. With a robust agenda, substantial investment commitments, and a focus on shared priorities, the event is poised to shape a new era of cooperation. Jérémie Blin’s diplomatic expertise and leadership will play a central role in realizing this vision, as the world watches Nairobi become the epicenter of a renewed partnership between Africa and France.
