Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i on Thursday, July 30, 2026, held talks with French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet, with the discussions centering on strengthening economic cooperation between Kenya and France through increased trade, investment, and business partnerships.
The meeting, which Matiang’i described as productive, focused on attracting more French private sector investment into Kenya, expanding opportunities for Kenyan enterprises, and creating employment through stronger economic collaboration.
Sharing details of the engagement on his official X account, Matiang’i underscored the importance of deepening bilateral relations between the two nations, particularly in areas that can stimulate economic growth and improve livelihoods.
“This morning, I had the pleasure of meeting H.E. Arnaud Suquet, Ambassador of France to Kenya,” Matiang’i wrote.
“We exchanged views on the importance of strengthening economic ties between our two countries, encouraging greater French private sector investment, expanding opportunities for Kenyan enterprises, and fostering partnerships that create jobs and drive shared prosperity.”
Focus on Investment and Job Creation
Matiang’i’s remarks come at a time when Kenya is intensifying efforts to attract foreign direct investment amid growing public concern over unemployment, economic growth, and the rising cost of living.
By emphasizing increased French investment, Matiang’i highlighted the role international partnerships can play in boosting local industries, supporting entrepreneurship, and creating sustainable employment opportunities for Kenyan youth.
His comments also reflected a broader vision of mutually beneficial economic cooperation, where businesses from both Kenya and France can collaborate to unlock new markets and strengthen commercial ties.
Kenya-France Economic Relations
Kenya and France have maintained strong diplomatic and economic relations over the years, with cooperation spanning key sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, transport, education, manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services.
French companies have made significant investments in Kenya, contributing to major infrastructure projects, clean energy initiatives, and industrial development. Successive governments have also worked closely with France to expand trade, enhance technology transfer, and encourage private sector partnerships.
As one of France’s strategic partners in East Africa, Kenya continues to serve as an important destination for French investment and regional business operations.
Appreciation for Ambassador Suquet
During the meeting, Matiang’i also took the opportunity to commend Ambassador Arnaud Suquet for his service during his diplomatic assignment in Kenya.
“I sincerely appreciate Ambassador Suquet’s insights and his distinguished service during his tour of duty in Kenya. I wish him every success in his new assignment,” he said.
The ambassador is expected to conclude his diplomatic mission in Kenya as he prepares to take up a new posting.
Matiang’i’s Growing Public Engagements
The meeting adds to a series of high-profile public engagements by Matiang’i in recent months, during which he has increasingly spoken on issues affecting the country, including governance, security, economic recovery, and the rule of law.
His growing visibility has fueled political speculation ahead of the 2027 General Election, with observers viewing his engagements as part of a broader effort to articulate his vision on national development and economic transformation.
Although Thursday’s meeting focused primarily on economic diplomacy, it reinforces the importance of international partnerships in supporting Kenya’s long-term development agenda through investment, innovation, and job creation.
As Kenya continues to position itself as a regional economic hub, stronger collaboration with partners such as France is expected to play a critical role in driving sustainable growth and expanding opportunities for businesses and citizens alike.
