By Joshua Otieno | May 11, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — French President Emmanuel Macron today sharply reprimanded sections of the audience during a high-profile summit at the University of Nairobi, condemning what he described as a “total lack of respect” toward speakers.
The incident unfolded during the Africa Forward Summit, an event focused on youth innovation, culture, and international collaboration, attended by students, entrepreneurs, and leaders from across the continent.
As a young presenter addressed the gathering, the auditorium reportedly became increasingly noisy with side conversations and movement, prompting a visibly frustrated Macron to interrupt the session and take hold of the microphone.
“Excuse me, everybody. Hey, hey, hey!” Macron said as he attempted to restore order in the hall.
“I’m sorry guys, but it is impossible to speak about culture and have people like that, super inspired, coming here making a speech with such noise. This is a total lack of respect,” he added.
The French President further instructed those not interested in the session to leave the venue instead of disrupting the speakers.
“If you want to have your own bilateral meetings, go to the rooms where it’s allowed. But here, if we want to play the same game, please respect the speakers,” Macron stated before allowing the presentation to continue.
President William Ruto, who was seated beside Macron during the event, remained composed throughout the brief exchange.
Videos of the moment quickly circulated online, sparking mixed reactions among Kenyans on social media. While some supported Macron’s call for decorum and respect during public discussions, others criticized the tone of his remarks, describing them as overly stern and condescending.
Despite the tense moment, the summit proceeded without further disruption, with Macron later participating in an interactive question-and-answer session with students and young innovators.
The Africa Forward Summit forms part of Macron’s ongoing three-day state visit to Kenya, which is aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in areas including green energy, technology, education, and youth empowerment.
