Tensions erupted in Nairobi after Kenyan police fired gunshots and tear gas at hundreds of pan-African activists protesting against the ongoing France-Africa summit in the Kenyan capital.
More than 11 protesters were reportedly arrested during the demonstrations, which drew over 1,000 activists, human rights campaigners, and anti-imperialist organisations from across Africa. Protesters had gathered to oppose what they described as growing French influence and “neo-colonial interference” on the continent.
Anti-riot police blocked demonstrators from reaching the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, where the Africa Forward Summit was being held. One group was stopped near the Serena Hotel before reaching the city centre, while another group was intercepted along Uhuru Highway as they attempted to move closer to the summit venue.
Witnesses said several activists were forcibly bundled into police vehicles, with reports indicating that some foreign nationals were among those detained.
The Communist Party Marxist Kenya condemned the crackdown, accusing authorities of intimidation and repression against peaceful demonstrators. The organisation said those arrested included “anti-imperialist and revolutionary activists, intellectuals and organisers” who had gathered in solidarity against imperialism and neo-colonial domination in Africa.
“Their only crime is standing with the oppressed… declaring that Africa is not for sale,” the organisation said while demanding the immediate release of all detained activists.
The demonstrations coincided with the second day of the Africa Forward Summit, which focused on issues including peace and security, artificial intelligence, health, agriculture, and economic reforms.
Protesters chanted slogans including “Hands off Africa!”, “France out of Africa!”, and “Reparations, not handouts!” while directing criticism at French President Emmanuel Macron and France’s role in African affairs.
Activists argued that the summit represents a broader attempt by France to reposition itself in Africa following its declining influence in parts of West Africa, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
At the same time, Nairobi also hosted the Pan-Africanism Summit Against Imperialism (PASAI) at Ufungamano House — a counter-summit bringing together labour movements, youth groups, and anti-imperialist organisations from across Africa and the Global South.
Organisers said the gathering aimed to expose what they described as Western neo-colonialism, strengthen anti-imperialist networks across the continent, and advance calls for reparative justice.
Critics of the Africa Forward Summit argue that France’s strategy is shifting away from direct military involvement toward diplomacy, investment, and security partnerships. However, activists insist the approach is merely “a rebranding of colonialism” designed to preserve foreign influence over African resources and political systems.