Kenya set to host French President Macron next month

French President Emmanuel Macron [File, AFP]

French President Emmanuel Macron will make a two-day State visit to Kenya mid next month. French Ambassador Aline Kuster-Menager yesterday confirmed that Macron would visit the country when she paid a courtesy call on President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House, Nairobi.

Kenyatta said he looked forward to hosting the French President, adding that he expected the visit to break new ground in bilateral relations between Kenya and France.

“Traditionally, Kenya and France enjoy strong bilateral ties and I am pleased that we've continued to deepen the relations. I look forward to the visit by President Macron,” he said.

During President Macron's visit, Kenya and France are expected to sign several agreements covering subjects of mutual interest between them.

The proposed rapid transit train service between Nairobi Central Business District and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is among projects expected to feature prominently when Uhuru hosts the French leader in Nairobi.

Africa has emerged as a cornerstone of Macron’s effort to boost France’s global influence.