Kenya, France Sign 11 Deals on Transport, Energy and Technology Cooperation
Ruto and Macron also discussed improving direct air connectivity between Kenya and France, arguing that expanded passenger and cargo capacity would increase tourism, strengthen export trade and reinforce Nairobi’s position as a logistics hub.
By Suleiman Mbatiah
Kenya’s push to become East Africa’s leading logistics and technology hub gained momentum on Saturday after France committed investments in commuter rail, port infrastructure, renewable energy and digital transformation projects during Emmanuel Macron’s Nairobi visit.
President William Ruto said Kenya and France signed eleven agreements targeting transport modernisation, logistics, aviation, agriculture, health systems and industrial development, reinforcing Nairobi’s ambitions to position itself as a gateway for trade, investment and innovation.
Among the largest commitments was an 83 million euro rehabilitation programme for Nairobi’s commuter rail network, including upgrades linking the capital to Ruiru, Embakasi, Syokimau and Kikuyu, alongside construction of the Riruta-Ngong extension line.
The two governments also announced an $800 million joint venture for logistics and port infrastructure, while additional agreements covered sustainable aviation fuel production, fisheries, climate services, nuclear energy cooperation and expansion of the Kipeto project.
Ruto described the Nairobi gathering as “a turning point towards a more balanced, action-oriented, and results-driven Africa-France partnership,” saying both countries intended to strengthen cooperation through investment-led projects designed to deliver economic and industrial outcomes.
Macron’s visit coincided with the inaugural Africa-France Summit in Nairobi, held under the theme “Africa Forward: Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth,” which brought together policymakers, investors and leaders seeking commercial engagement across African markets.
Kenya and France further agreed to expand collaboration in cybersecurity, digital public services, artificial intelligence and laboratory systems, with officials saying improved data infrastructure and epidemic preparedness would strengthen healthcare delivery and support outbreak responses.
The agreements also included financing for Masinga Dam upgrades and a 100 megawatt expansion of the Kipeto energy project valued at $250 million, alongside support for engineering education and technical training at Kenyan universities.
Ruto and Macron also discussed improving direct air connectivity between Kenya and France, arguing that expanded passenger and cargo capacity would increase tourism, strengthen export trade and reinforce Nairobi’s position as a logistics hub.
Ruto said Kenya views the summit as “a historic moment” for reshaping international cooperation, adding that both governments wanted partnerships anchored in investment, mutual benefit and shared responsibility rather than diplomatic engagement.
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