Macron Criticized for Disruptive Comments at Africa Forward Summit
French President Emmanuel Macron faced backlash on Monday after he interrupted a youth-focused session at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi. He publicly chastised participants who spoke over the scheduled speakers, labeling the behavior as a “total lack of respect.”
In video footage from the event, Macron stood up and took to the stage during the “Africa Forward: Creation in Movement” session, where young entrepreneurs and artists were discussing culture and innovation. “Excuse me, everyone. Hey, hey, hey,” he said, apologizing but clearly frustrated. “It’s impossible to talk about culture when there are such loud speeches.” He firmly expressed, “This is a complete lack of respect. If you want to have a bilateral relationship or speak about someone else, there’s a place for that, or else get out. If you want to stay, then we listen to one another.”
Following his remarks, social media lit up with criticism. Fazai Makhele, a former Zimbabwean parliamentarian, responded to Macron with, “With all due respect @EmmanuelMacron, it is neither polite nor appropriate for you to come to our continent and criticize us like this. They’re not your children. Would you allow a guest in France to act similarly?”
A Kenyan-Canadian lawyer with a significant following, Dr. Miguna Miguna, also chimed in, stating, “We don’t need permission to speak in Africa, @EmmanuelMacron.” He has previously announced intentions to run for Kenya’s presidential election in 2027.
The disruption took place during an event meant to encourage discussions about economic development and cooperation between African nations and Europe. Interestingly, Macron’s visit was intended to foster more respectful partnerships, moving away from a paternalistic postcolonial approach that has drawn criticism for years.
According to reports, this incident cast an “unusual shadow” over the summit, with some civil society groups labeling it as a “reinvention of imperialism.” The moment highlighted the delicate balancing act that Macron must navigate as France tries to redefine its ties with Africa amid a backdrop of political tensions and military withdrawals from some West African nations.
Earlier that same day, Macron addressed students at the University of Nairobi, asserting, “Africa is successful,” and emphasized the need for investments that bolster sovereignty instead of depending on development aid. He also admitted the financial constraints facing France during his speech.
As France recalibrates its strategy towards Africa, Macron is increasingly focusing on partnerships with the continent’s youth and cultural leaders—an effort to counter growing competition for influence from Russia, China, and Turkey.
