Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, has reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to constitutional governance, institutional integrity, and global cooperation.
Speaking during the 145th anniversary celebration of France’s National Day—Bastille Day—at the French Embassy in Nairobi, Mudavadi assured Kenya’s international partners that the country remains anchored on strong institutions and a progressive constitution that guarantees stability, democracy, and investment predictability.
“We are re-affirming our commitment as government to providing and maintaining a stable and predictable environment for investment and collaboration,” said Mudavadi.
The Prime CS emphasized that Kenya’s 2010 Constitution—adopted through a national referendum with over 70% public support—remains the cornerstone of the country’s democratic governance and development agenda. He reiterated that the government respects and upholds the will of the people, with no room for populism or unconstitutional deviation.
The Bastille Day celebration, hosted by French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet, was marked by renewed pledges of deepening Kenya-France cooperation across various sectors.
“Our strong bilateral partnerships are grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to sustainable development,” Mudavadi said, highlighting France’s role in critical sectors including infrastructure, energy, education, trade, and regional diplomacy.
He lauded France’s support for over 150 development projects in Kenya since 2015, with a total investment exceeding €1.8 billion. Of note was the planned Science and Engineering Complex at the University of Nairobi, backed by the French government, which Mudavadi hailed as a symbol of innovation and partnership.
French Ambassador Suquet praised Kenya’s regional leadership and growing influence, noting that:
“We are proud to support the University of Nairobi’s Big 5 Silicon Savanna project—promoting science, engineering, and gender inclusion through innovation.”
Addressing recent protests and demonstrations on June 25 and July 7, Mudavadi acknowledged the challenges but maintained that the events have only strengthened Kenya’s resolve to uphold constitutional order.
“The Government of Kenya continues to defend the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, and picketing under Article 37, while firmly upholding that such actions must remain non-violent and unarmed,” he stated. “We do not want to lose any more lives.”
In a historic development, Mudavadi announced that Kenya will co-host the Africa-France Summit in Nairobi in 2026—the first time the summit will be held in a non-Francophone African country.
“Preparations are well underway, and France’s confidence in Kenya’s capacity to co-host this pivotal event speaks volumes,” he said. “This milestone presents a unique opportunity for our two nations to spearhead new conversations on Africa’s role in the global economy.”
Present at the event were Jeremie Robert, Africa Advisor to French President Emmanuel Macron; Ambassador Jeremie Blin, Secretary General of the Africa-France Summit; and Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP, Hon. Ababu Namwamba.
Mudavadi also acknowledged France’s role as a Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council in supporting peace and security initiatives across the Horn of Africa and Great Lakes region, through multilateral efforts such as the African Union and UN peacekeeping missions.
Closing his remarks, Mudavadi paid tribute to the shared values of liberty, democracy, and resilience symbolized by Bastille Day.
“Bastille Day reminds us of the strength of national solidarity, the collective resolve of people united in purpose, and a relentless commitment to democracy,” he said. “These ideals are cherished by both France and Kenya.”
On behalf of President William Ruto, the Government, and the people of Kenya, Mudavadi extended warm greetings and congratulations to President Emmanuel Macron and the people of France.
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