Emmanuel Macron has chosen Kenya as a key destination for his African tour, a move aimed at rebalancing France's strategy following the decline of its influence in the Sahel. The visit prioritizes commercial and political alliances with a non-Francophone country, attempting to leave behind the colonial burden that marked tense relations with former colonies.
Can digital technology open the door to Paris? 💻
France is betting on technological cooperation to gain ground in Nairobi. Macron has promoted agreements in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and startups, sectors where Kenya leads in the region. However, competition is fierce: China and the United States already have a strong presence in the Kenyan digital ecosystem. Paris offers funding and expertise but lacks the agility of its rivals.
The last dance of colonialism in startup version 🌍
Macron arrives in Kenya with a suitcase full of digital promises and photo-ready smiles, as if colonialism had dissolved with a click. But in the Sahel, the coup leaders have already shut the door on him. Now he tries to seduce Nairobi with fiber optic cables, while Kenyans remember that tea and flowers do not need a Parisian tutor.