French President Emmanuel Macron defended Europe’s role in Africa during the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, arguing that Europe remains a reliable partner as China, Russia and other powers expand their influence across the continent.

The summit, co-hosted by Kenya and France on May 11–12, focused on innovation, growth, energy transition, peace and international finance reform. France’s presidency described the meeting as part of a renewed Africa-France partnership framework.

Macron’s message matters because France is trying to reposition itself after years of strained relations in parts of West Africa. AP reported that the Nairobi summit reflects France’s push toward a “partnership of equals,” including stronger ties with English-speaking African countries.

Macron also criticized China’s role in Africa’s minerals sector, accusing Beijing of creating economic dependencies by processing African raw materials at home. He contrasted that approach with Europe’s support for multilateralism, open trade and rule-based cooperation.

The shift comes after France withdrew troops from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger following military coups and rising anti-French sentiment. Macron defended France’s former Sahel military presence, saying French forces had been invited to fight jihadist threats and left when their presence was no longer wanted.

Kenya’s role as host also underlined Nairobi’s growing diplomatic profile. For France, holding the summit in Kenya signaled an effort to move beyond traditional Francophone ties and rebuild influence through broader economic, cultural and political engagement.