Nairobi, (SONNA) – African leaders and representatives of the French Republic on Tuesday adopted the Nairobi Declaration at the Africa Forward Summit 2026, outlining a shared framework for cooperation on peace and security, economic transformation, climate resilience, digital innovation and sustainable development across the continent.
The declaration emphasized the importance of strengthening African-led peace and security mechanisms, enhancing cooperation against terrorism and transnational threats, and supporting institutional stability across conflict-affected regions, including the Horn of Africa and Somalia.
Leaders reaffirmed support for African Union-led security efforts and called for stronger international cooperation in implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719 to ensure predictable financing for African peace operations.
The summit also underscored the strategic importance of the Blue Economy, maritime security and sustainable use of marine resources, with commitments to combat piracy, illegal fishing and trafficking while safeguarding international trade routes and coastal economies.
On economic development, the declaration called for increased investment in infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, digital transformation and industrialization to accelerate inclusive growth and job creation across Africa.
Participants further pledged to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), strengthen regional integration and promote value-added production to reduce reliance on raw commodity exports.
The declaration highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in Africa’s future development, calling for investment in digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems, youth skills development and responsible AI governance.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment to partnerships based on mutual respect, co-investment and shared prosperity, while calling on governments, development partners and the private sector to work together in advancing sustainable growth and resilience across the continent.
THE AFRICA FORWARD SUMMIT 2026 – NAIROBI DECLARATION 12th May 26
