French President Emmanuel Macron announced $27 billion [1] in investment projects during an Africa-France summit held in Nairobi on May 11-12, 2026 [2].

The summit represents a strategic effort by France to diversify its partnerships across the continent. By securing new economic deals, France aims to strengthen its influence and foster growth through shared infrastructure, and technology projects.

More than 30 African leaders attended the event [2], including Kenyan President William Ruto. The discussions centered on shifting the traditional relationship between France and African nations toward a model of mutual economic benefit.

"We are here to build a new partnership based on mutual respect and shared prosperity for the benefit of our peoples," Macron said.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said the summit would showcase French expertise in agriculture, digital technology, and renewable energy to unlock billions of dollars of investment [1]. These sectors are viewed as critical for the long-term stability and modernization of the participating nations.

President Ruto emphasized the need for tangible results from the diplomatic gathering. "Kenya welcomes President Macron and looks forward to concrete projects that will create jobs and boost our economies," Ruto said.

The summit concluded on Tuesday after two days of negotiations. While some reports focused on the diplomatic opening on Monday [2], the overall agenda remained fixed on the procurement of new investment deals and the expansion of French commercial interests in Africa.

“"We are here to build a new partnership based on mutual respect and shared prosperity..."”

This summit signals a pivot in French foreign policy toward a more transactional and economic-centric approach in Africa. By focusing on renewable energy and digital technology, France is attempting to compete with other global powers for influence on the continent while transitioning away from older, more contentious colonial-era diplomatic frameworks.