Africa Forward Summit 2026 in Nairobi: LFIDD Students Explore AI, African Innovation and France-Kenya Cooperation
On May 11, 2026, Nairobi hosted the Africa Forward Summit. This international event was jointly organised by France and Kenya.
Led by Presidents Emmanuel Macron and William Ruto, the summit brought together decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and innovators shaping the future of Africa.
On this occasion, five students from the Model United Nations (MUN) programme at the Lycée Français International Denis Diderot (LFIDD) attended several high-level sessions.
Future Makers: AI and Tech Driving African Entrepreneurship
First, the students joined the Future Makers session.
There, they explored the key trends shaping the future of the African continent.
Discussions focused on several major topics:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI);
- digital transformation;
- the digital economy;
- data management;
- creative industries;
- digital marketing;
- entrepreneurship and African startups.
Through this experience, students gained a deeper understanding of how innovation supports Africa’s economic growth.
They also discovered how emerging technologies are transforming international relations and business opportunities.
African Voices: Culture, Heritage and International Cooperation
In the afternoon, students attended the African Voices panel.
The session focused on cultural diplomacy and international cooperation.
Alongside leading figures such as Éléonore Caroit and Françoise Remarck, they explored important contemporary issues.
Discussions highlighted the restitution of cultural property and heritage cooperation between Africa and Europe.
In addition, students learned about the work of ALIPH, the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas.
This presentation demonstrated how culture can promote peace, preserve memory, and strengthen international dialogue.
A Memorable Meeting with President Emmanuel Macron
One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to meet President Emmanuel Macron.
Several students had the privilege of shaking hands with the French President during the summit.
Beyond this symbolic moment, the experience helped students understand the importance of international dialogue and civic engagement.
Education Connected to Global Challenges
This immersion perfectly reflects the mission of LFIDD and the AEFE network.
The school prepares students to understand and engage with the major issues shaping today’s world.
By participating in the Africa Forward Summit, students gained valuable insight into the transformations taking place across Africa.
Through innovation, international cooperation, and cultural sovereignty, they are developing the skills needed to become informed and engaged global citizens.
