New French Ambassador Wadid Benaabou Takes Over as Arnaud Suquet Ends Four-Year Kenya Posting
Benaabou announced the beginning of his mission in Nairobi, pledging to build on the longstanding ties between Kenya and France.
Nairobi, Kenya - France has appointed Wadid Benaabou as its new Ambassador-designate to Kenya, marking the end of Arnaud Suquet's four-year diplomatic tenure. Suquet, who completed his mission in September, forged a deep bond with Kenya and its people during his time in the country. Benaabou, in his inaugural address, expressed his commitment to building upon the strong partnership between the two nations.
Suquet's tenure, which covered Kenya and Somalia, saw him cultivate a unique public profile beyond conventional diplomatic engagements. He became known for his efforts to understand Kenyan culture, learning Kiswahili and attempting to navigate Sheng. Suquet fondly remembered his experiences in Kenya, from learning Kiswahili from children's books to running alongside marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge and French President Emmanuel Macron at the Africa Forward Summit.
As Kenya and France aim to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, security, climate action, development, and multilateral diplomacy, Benaabou inherits a relationship on solid footing. His predecessor, Suquet, expressed gratitude for the "strong ties, great memories, and genuine friendship" shared with Kenya, promising to return to the country as a French citizen. President William Ruto formally acknowledged Suquet's departure, emphasizing the enduring importance of their partnership.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
