Macron faces backlash after interrupting Africa summit panel in Kenya

Macron has faced backlash after interrupting a panel at the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya and demanding order from the audience. He also announced a $27 billion investment in Africa. The incident sparked debate over France–Africa relations and his conduct.

French President Emmanuel Macron has faced strong backlash after he interrupted a panel session at the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya, where he reportedly demanded silence from the audience during a live discussion.
Macron reportedly moved onto the stage during a presentation involving artists and young entrepreneurs, accusing sections of the audience of showing a “total lack of respect” and disrupting speakers. He then asked for the microphone so he could “restore order,” visibly frustrated by the level of noise in the hall. He addressed attendees in English, criticizing them for talking over speakers and interrupting the session.
Some audience members applauded his intervention, but others strongly criticized his actions, which quickly went viral on social media. Earlier in the summit, Macron had also described himself as a “Pan-Africanist” during a press conference, a claim that sparked further debate online.
At the summit, Macron announced a $27 billion investment package targeting key sectors across Africa, including energy, artificial intelligence, and agriculture. The gathering is intended to reflect France’s new approach to Africa, shifting from its colonial-era dominance toward what Paris describes as a partnership of equals.
However, his remarks and conduct have triggered renewed criticism, particularly given France’s historical influence on the continent. Some critics accused him of behaving in a patronizing manner, while others defended the intervention as necessary to maintain order.
Reactions on social media were mixed. Senegalese student Thierno Mbaye questioned how African leaders would be treated if they behaved similarly in Europe or the United States, while others described Macron’s actions as inappropriate and disrespectful. In France, opposition voices also criticized him, with lawmaker Danièle Obono arguing that his behaviour reflected lingering colonial attitudes.
The controversy comes amid strained relations between France and several of its former West African colonies, where France has long maintained military and economic influence under the policy often referred to as “Françafrique.” In recent years, France has withdrawn troops from several countries in the region, including the completion of its withdrawal from Senegal in July.
Macron had already faced criticism ahead of the summit for calling himself a “true Pan-Africanist” during a joint appearance with Kenyan President William Ruto, a statement that went viral and drew backlash from activists and commentators who said the term cannot be separated from Africa’s anti-colonial history.
Some analysts suggest Macron’s rhetoric may be part of France’s effort to reposition itself amid growing competition in Africa, including from Russia, which has expanded its influence in parts of West Africa. Others argue France is attempting to rebuild trust through a more informal diplomatic style, though questions remain about whether this represents genuine partnership or strategic rebranding.
Despite the controversy, the French presidency reiterated that Paris respects the sovereignty of African nations and supports mutual cooperation, with Macron stating that Africa’s success is also France’s success.