The high-profile Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi has come under scrutiny after CNN journalist Larry Madowo publicly highlighted alleged major organizational challenges during the two-day event.
The summit, held on May 11 and 12, was co-hosted by Kenyan President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron.
It attracted more than 30 African heads of state, top business executives, diplomats, and investors for discussions on trade, energy, artificial intelligence, agriculture, and institutional reforms across the continent.
However, despite the summit’s ambitious agenda and international profile, reports of confusion and poor coordination overshadowed parts of the gathering.
Accreditation Delays and Overlapping Sessions Spark Frustration
Madowo, who attended the summit at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, shared videos and observations showing long queues, crowded hallways, and heated exchanges involving delegates and security personnel.
According to the journalist, accreditation challenges created bottlenecks that delayed entry for attendees and participants. He also pointed to overlapping sessions that reportedly caused confusion among delegates trying to navigate the packed summit schedule.
Some of the most notable moments involved prominent figures allegedly being left waiting outside due to logistical issues. Among those affected were Paul Kagame and TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné, whose delayed access quickly became a talking point online.
Videos circulating on social media showed delegates arguing over access and accreditation while crowds struggled to move through restricted areas within the venue.
France Announces €23 Billion Investment Commitment
Despite the organizational setbacks, the summit still produced major economic announcements.
France pledged €23 billion in investments targeting African infrastructure, energy projects, agriculture, and digital transformation initiatives. The commitment was positioned as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic cooperation between African nations and European partners.
President Macron emphasized the need for stronger partnerships with African countries, particularly in areas involving clean energy, technology, and youth employment.
President Ruto also defended the summit as an important platform for attracting foreign investment and expanding Africa’s role in global economic discussions.
Anti-France Protests Add Political Tension
The summit also faced political pressure from activists and civil society groups protesting what they described as continued neo-colonial influence by France in Africa.
Demonstrators gathered near parts of the summit venue carrying placards and chanting slogans critical of French involvement in African political and economic affairs.
Some activists accused Western powers of exploiting African resources while presenting investment deals as partnerships.
Security around the summit remained tight as authorities monitored demonstrations and controlled access to the convention center.
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