France Expands Its Kenya Footprint Through Digital Systems, Energy and Infrastructure Deals

Kenya and France have placed technology cooperation at the centre of a new round of bilateral agreements signed in Nairobi, with both governments outlining plans to work together on digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data systems as Kenya pushes to expand its position as a regional technology hub.

The agreements were signed on Saturday at State House during talks between President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of the Africa Forward Summit.

A major part of the discussions focused on Kenya’s digital economy strategy, including collaboration around digital public services, connectivity infrastructure and cybersecurity systems. The government said the partnership will support ongoing programmes linked to Konza Technopolis and the wider Digital Superhighway initiative, both of which form part of Kenya’s attempt to build larger technology capacity across East and Central Africa.

Ruto said Kenya is seeking stronger technical cooperation with France as demand grows for secure digital systems, cloud infrastructure and AI-linked services across the region.

The digital agreements formed part of a broader package of 11 deals covering transport, energy, logistics, agriculture, health and education.

Among the largest projects announced is the modernisation and expansion of the Nairobi commuter rail network, valued at Ksh.12.5 billion. The project includes upgrades connecting Nairobi with Syokimau, Embakasi, Ruiru and Kikuyu, alongside the ongoing Riruta-Ngong extension.

Kenya and France also agreed to establish a logistics and port infrastructure investment framework estimated at about Ksh.104 billion, aimed at strengthening cargo movement and trade connectivity.

In the energy sector, Kenya said it would work with France on civilian nuclear energy development as the country pursues a long-term electricity generation target of 10,000 megawatts. Additional agreements cover the expansion of the Kipeto Wind Energy project by 100 megawatts at a projected cost of Ksh.32.5 billion.

Agriculture and manufacturing also featured in the discussions. The two countries signed an agreement supporting the export of premium Kenyan purple tea into French retail markets as Kenya seeks higher-value agricultural exports.

Other agreements involve climate and weather system upgrades, sustainable aviation fuel production, fisheries cooperation and agri-food systems development.

Healthcare cooperation was included through plans to improve digital health systems, laboratory coordination and epidemic preparedness using real-time data tools.

Ruto said Kenya and France also discussed expanding air connectivity between the two countries to support trade, tourism and business travel.

On education, the leaders confirmed progress on the Ksh.5.6 billion University of Nairobi Engineering and Science Complex, which is expected to strengthen STEM and technical training capacity.

Macron said France intends to widen investment partnerships across Africa while supporting reforms to international financing systems through upcoming G7 discussions and cooperation with the African Development Bank.

“We will try and speed up the reform of the African Financial Infrastructure with the African Development Bank,” Macron said.

Ruto said Kenya’s approach to foreign partnerships would remain focused on economic cooperation and development priorities.

“We are looking forward,” he said.

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