NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 8 – France has appointed Wadid Benaabou as its new Ambassador-designate to Kenya, taking over from Arnaud Suquet, who has completed a four-year diplomatic tour that saw him develop an unusually close relationship with the country and its people.

📻 Breaking It Down

Benaabou announced the beginning of his mission in Nairobi, pledging to build on the longstanding ties between Kenya and France.

“I am honoured to begin my mission as France’s Ambassador-designate to Kenya. France and Kenya share a strong partnership, rooted in friendship and a shared ambition for the future,” Benaabou said.

He added: “I look forward to working alongside our Kenyan partners. Niko tayari!”

📌 What You Need to Know

His arrival marks the end of Suquet’s tenure, which began in 2022 and covered not only Kenya but also Somalia and France’s representation to the United Nations Office in Nairobi.

Suquet left after completing his full four-year posting, having cultivated a public profile that went beyond conventional diplomatic engagements.

His successor comes into office at a time when Kenya and France are seeking to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, security, climate action, development and multilateral diplomacy.

Suquet’s departure was marked by a deeply personal farewell message in which he reflected on the country he had called home for four years.

“Dear Kenya, the pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again,” he wrote in a farewell message.

Suquet said he was leaving Kenya with “strong ties, great memories and genuine friendship” and wished Benaabou well as he assumed the Nairobi mission.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya