Kenya to Host Historic Africa Forward Summit 2026 as 30 Heads of State Confirm Attendance
By Jeff Kizzilah/ Digital Editor
The Government of Kenya has officially announced that the country will host the highly anticipated from May 11–12, 2026, in Nairobi, bringing together African Heads of State, global leaders, private sector players, youth innovators and development partners in a major push to strengthen Africa’s global partnerships and accelerate sustainable development.
Government Spokesperson said the summit marks a historic milestone for the continent as it will, for the first time, be hosted outside the Francophonie bloc, signaling a new era of inclusive and Africa-led cooperation built on mutual respect, shared prosperity and effective multilateral engagement.
The summit comes ahead of France’s G7 Presidency in June 2026 and is expected to provide Africa with a strategic platform to amplify its priorities in global economic and governance discussions.
According to the government, will use the forum to champion African-led solutions, equitable partnerships, sustainable financing and reforms aimed at securing Africa’s rightful place in global decision-making institutions.
The Summit will focus on critical thematic areas including reforms to the global financial architecture, climate action and green financing, peace and security, Artificial Intelligence and digital transformation, agriculture and food security, blue economy development, and strengthening health systems alongside local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
The event will feature high-level plenary sessions, ministerial meetings, business forums, youth innovation platforms, cultural showcases and civil society engagements aimed at deepening Africa-France cooperation and unlocking investment opportunities across the continent.
A special sports session will also promote sports as a driver of partnerships, investment and job creation, with Kenya expected to showcase preparations for hosting the .
On May 12, the Summit will culminate in the at , featuring international musicians and celebrations of Africa’s creative industries.
Additionally, youth-focused engagements will be held at to discuss employability, Artificial Intelligence, digital innovation and global youth positioning.
Parallel ministerial discussions on peace and security are expected to address reforms at the , with African leaders pushing for stronger African representation and reforms to the veto system.
So far, the Government has confirmed participation from 55 delegations, including 30 Heads of State and Government from countries such as , , , , , , and among others.
International and regional organizations expected at the summit include the , , , , and the .
The expected outcomes of the summit include the adoption of the Nairobi Declaration on Africa-France Partnership, mobilization of new investment and financing opportunities, enhanced cooperation in energy, infrastructure, healthcare and digital transformation, expanded youth empowerment opportunities and stronger collaboration on peace, security and global governance reforms.
