- French President Emmanuel Macron interrupted a speaking event at the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, Kenya, to demand silence from a noisy audience.
- Macron took the microphone to scold attendees, stating their behaviour showed a 'total lack of respect' to the presenters and suggesting those wishing to speak should use bilateral rooms or go outside.
- His intervention, delivered in English, was met with some applause but also drew criticism from figures like Kenyan politician Willis Evans Otieno and former Zimbabwean MP Fadzayi Mahere, who accused him of being patronising and condescending.
- Critics highlighted France's historical legacy of colonial domination and exploitation in Africa, suggesting Macron's actions were particularly ill-received given this context.
- Macron's visit to Kenya was part of a broader effort to forge new deals and partnerships with African leaders, aiming to counter fading French influence in some former colonies and announcing €23 billion in investments.
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