Today in Africa: French President’s Africa Pitch Draws Backlash, Ghana Begins South Africa Evacuations

Curated by Emelets Blog | Originally reported by OkayAfrica

In today’s roundup of significant events across the African continent, we look at the fallout from the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi and the escalating regional tensions stemming from anti-immigrant violence in South Africa.

Macron’s “Equal Partnership” Pitch Meets Skepticism

French President Emmanuel Macron recently concluded the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, pledging a substantial $27 billion in investments and advocating for a new “equal partnership” between France and African nations . However, the summit’s outcomes have been met with criticism from various quarters.

While discussions centered on debt reform, infrastructure, and investment, analysts and civil society groups argue that the summit failed to address critical demands. Key among these were calls for debt relief and loan repayment pauses for struggling African economies [1].

Key Points of Contention:

The “Pan-Africanist” Claim: Macron’s assertion that “we are the true Pan-Africanists” sparked significant online backlash. Critics argue that France, given its colonial history, cannot lay claim to a movement fundamentally rooted in anti-colonial resistance [1].
Calls for Debt Cancellation: Civil society organizations, including Afrodad and Oxfam France, have urged France to support debt cancellation for countries in the Global South [1].
Shifting Alliances: Analysts observe that France appears to be pivoting its focus toward English-speaking African countries, potentially in response to waning influence in parts of West Africa [1].
Public Perception: Interestingly, an Ipsos survey commissioned by the French Foreign Ministry indicated that 74% of respondents across nine African countries view France positively, with the strongest support found among younger demographics and in English-speaking nations [1].

Emelets Blog Takeaway: The disconnect between Macron’s rhetoric and the demands of African civil society highlights the ongoing complexities of post-colonial relations. True partnership requires addressing systemic economic imbalances, not just promising new investments.

Regional Tensions Rise as Ghana Evacuates Citizens from South Africa

In a concerning development, Ghana has announced plans to evacuate 300 of its citizens from South Africa [1]. This decision follows a surge in anti-immigrant violence and protests targeting migrants from other African nations.

Ghana’s foreign minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed that the evacuees had registered for assistance with the Ghana High Commission [1]. This move comes as several African governments issue warnings to their nationals residing in South Africa.

The Growing Regional Fallout:

Nigeria: At least 130 Nigerian citizens have requested repatriation from South Africa [1].
Travel Advisories: Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe have all issued warnings to their citizens in South Africa, urging caution amid the rising tensions [1].
South Africa’s Response: While South African authorities acknowledge the challenge of illegal immigration, they have condemned the xenophobic violence. The government had previously pledged in April to crack down on such attacks [1].
Diplomatic Protests: Ghana has formally protested videos circulating online that appear to depict attacks on foreign nationals [1].

Emelets Blog Takeaway: The situation in South Africa is a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive and humane immigration policies across the continent. The safety and security of all African citizens, regardless of where they reside, must be a paramount concern for regional leaders.

References:

[1] OkayAfrica. “Today in Africa — May 13, 2026: French President’s Africa Pitch Draws Backlash, Ghana Begins South Africa Evacuations.” OkayAfrica, 13 May 2026, https://www.okayafrica.com/today-in-africa-may-13-2026-french-presidents-africa-pitch-draws-backlash-ghana-begins-south-africa-evacuations/1429756.