Restitution, Global Governance On Agenda At Inaugural Africa-France Summit In Nairobi | The Reporter Ethiopia

French President Emmanuel Macron will travel to Nairobi, Kenya, to attend France’s first summit with English-speaking African countries, scheduled for 11–12 May 2026 under the theme Africa Forward.

At a joint briefing held today at the French Embassy in Addis Ababa, the ambassadors of France and Kenyan Ambassador outlined the summit’s agenda. French Ambassador Alex Lameke indicated that restitution, global governance, and reform of international institutions to strengthen African representation will be at the core of discussions.

On the sensitive issue of restitution, Lameke noted the establishment of historian committees in Rwanda, Senegal, and Cameroon to address memorial questions and advance reconciliation. He recalled France’s past efforts:

“Whenever we’ve been requested by African authorities as was the case with Benin, Senegal, and recently Madagascar or Côte d’Ivoire we have put in place mechanisms that allow for the restitution of artifacts.”

Restitution and reparations have been central to the African Union’s agenda, with 2025 designated as the year of advancing cultural artifact restitution as part of a broader reparatory justice framework.

Lameke highlighted France’s support for UN Security Council reform, including the attribution of two permanent seats for African countries and an increase in elected African members. Hosting this summit in an English-speaking country, he said, reflects “a significant evolution in France’s approach toward Africa.”

Recalling France’s G7 presidency, he stressed that the summit embodies a partnership of equals, built on shared interests and tangible results.

Kenya’s ambassador to Ethiopia, Galma Boru, described the summit as a milestone in Africa–France relations, signaling a shift toward innovation, investment, and implementation-driven cooperation.

According to the ambassadors the summit will focus tackling global challenges including, climate change, technological disruption, food security, and economic reform, with priorities including energy transition, financial reform, digital innovation, sustainable agriculture, and stronger health systems.