France and Africa Seek Economic Resilience Amidst Middle East Conflict
Nairobi, Kenya – As the conflict between the United States-Israel and Iran continues to destabilize the Middle East, reverberations are being felt across the African continent, prompting a renewed focus on economic cooperation and self-reliance. France is spearheading an effort to bolster ties with African nations, hosting a major investment summit in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 11-12, 2026.
The two-day summit will bring together over 2,500 corporate executives from 55 African countries, alongside high-ranking officials from regional economic blocs, to address the “existential threat” posed by the ongoing Middle East conflict. The aim is to forge new investment pathways and strengthen economic mechanisms between Africa and France, according to conference organizers.
“The strategic pathway should focus on unlocking Africa’s potential, driving sustainable industrialisation, and targeting economic growth across Africa,” stated Kenyan President William Ruto, acknowledging a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and multilateral cooperation. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of harnessing Africa’s untapped resources and human capital.
The initiative comes as the war between the US-Israel and Iran, which began in June 2025, continues to disrupt global economic stability. The conflict has already led to the destruction of infrastructure in Lebanon, including bridges over the Litani River, according to recent reports.
Beyond the immediate crisis, the summit will explore broader themes of innovation and new business directions in the face of geopolitical uncertainty. Discussions will center on developing manufacturing and extractive industries, establishing special economic zones, improving energy and transport infrastructure, and expanding digitalization and the agro-industrial complex. France has already developed a financial mechanism to support joint business ventures across Africa, with African financial institutions pledging their commitment to support localized production chains.
The French initiative is unfolding alongside increased economic engagement from the European Union. The EU recently unveiled a €300 billion ($340 billion) investment program designed to rival China’s Belt and Road initiative, focusing on building “links, not dependencies” with African partners. The EU’s strategy prioritizes support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the green transition, improved trade and investment climates, and enhanced public-private dialogue.
The AfCFTA, with its potential to create an integrated African market of 1.5 billion people, is also attracting interest from China, India, and the United States. France, however, believes its long-standing ties with African nations offer a unique and appealing partnership model.
Looking ahead, France intends to capitalize on Africa’s transformative economic sectors through collaborative partnerships. The upcoming summit in Nairobi aims to position Africa as a key partner in global innovation and economic development, while strengthening bilateral ties with France and advancing Africa’s agenda on the international stage.
