Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, said the summit will bring together nearly 30 heads of state and focus on innovation, economic transformation, peace, and international finance. It marks the first time such a high-level gathering is being held in an English-speaking African nation.
“Nearly 30 heads of state are expected to attend the summit. Discussions will centre on peace and security, international finance and how African countries can benefit from it, as well as innovation. Industries and business companies from Africa and France will also take part,” he said.
Nduhungirehe noted that the summit will also examine mediation efforts aimed at promoting peace across Africa, migration challenges, and broader cooperation between African countries and France. He added that the discussions will be open and interactive, allowing participants to exchange views freely.
Rwanda is also expected to feature prominently in discussions on artificial intelligence, with President Kagame set to co-chair a high-level roundtable on AI, underscoring the country’s growing role as a continental leader in digital innovation and technology-driven development.
The cultural and creative industries are also expected to receive attention during the summit, with internationally recognised Rwandan choreographer and creative artist Sherrie Silver set to participate in discussions on the role of African creativity in economic transformation and youth empowerment.
Nduhungirehe said Rwanda’s participation reflects its strong ties with both Kenya, the host nation, and France, which co-organised the summit, as well as the country’s interest in advancing economic and diplomatic cooperation.
“As you know, Rwanda is a country that promotes innovation, economic transformation, trade, and investment. We will therefore participate in all discussions to ensure Africa continues to progress and that cooperation between Africa and France advances on the basis of mutual interests,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Kenya on May 10 ahead of the summit. He stressed that cooperation between Africa and France should deliver mutual benefits and be built on mutual respect.
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