The Government has intensified preparations for the upcoming Africa Forward Summit, with senior officials expressing confidence in the country’s readiness to host one of the continent’s most significant global forums.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said arrangements for the high-profile summit, scheduled for May 11–12 in Nairobi, are at an advanced stage. He noted that delivering a world-class event will require seamless coordination across all arms of government.
Mudavadi revealed that he convened a high-level meeting bringing together Cabinet colleagues to assess progress, streamline responsibilities, and reinforce execution strategies ahead of the summit. The event will be co-hosted by President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The summit is expected to attract more than 4,000 delegates, including over 30 African Heads of State and Government. Leaders will deliberate on key thematic areas aimed at strengthening partnerships in innovation, boosting investment, and accelerating economic growth—critical pillars in job creation and socio-economic transformation, particularly for Africa’s youth.
Among those present at the preparatory meeting were Attorney-General Dorcas Oduor and several Cabinet Secretaries, including Aden Duale, Alice Wahome, Deborah Barasa, Davis Chirchir, Hassan Joho, Rebecca Miano, Salim Mvurya, Julius Ogamba, William Kabogo, Mutahi Kagwe, Lee Kinyanjui, Geoffrey Ruku, and Hanna Cheptumo.
Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, briefed the team on logistics, noting that the summit will rank among the largest international gatherings ever hosted in Nairobi.
Mudavadi described the forum as a defining moment for the continent, positioning Nairobi as the epicentre of critical discussions shaping Africa’s future. He emphasized that the summit will focus on seven key agenda areas under a shared vision of advancing Africa’s development priorities.
“We have invested months of preparation to ensure that when the world converges in Nairobi, Africa presents a unified voice, clear priorities, and committed partners ready to drive progress,” he said.
Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a coordinated, whole-of-government approach in delivering a successful summit. He said his ministry is prioritizing strong digital infrastructure, secure communication systems, and reliable connectivity to support the event while showcasing Kenya’s leadership in digital transformation.
Kabogo added that ongoing inter-ministerial consultations have been key in aligning government programmes and ensuring efficient delivery of national development goals.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale highlighted the summit’s potential to advance health innovation and strengthen pharmaceutical manufacturing across the continent. He noted that the Ministry of Health is focusing on comprehensive public health measures and medical preparedness to guarantee the safety and well-being of all delegates.
Duale described the summit as historic, marking the first time the Africa Forward Summit will be held on African soil. He underscored its importance in reinforcing Kenya’s position as a continental hub for diplomacy, collaboration, and innovation.
As Nairobi prepares to host the global gathering, government officials maintain that the Africa Forward Summit will not only elevate Kenya’s international profile but also set the stage for a new era of partnerships aimed at unlocking Africa’s full potential.
