France advances digital skills and health partnerships during Kenya visit

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

France’s Minister Delegate for Francophonie, International Partnerships and French Nationals Abroad, Éléonore Caroit, has reaffirmed France’s commitment to Kenya’s digital transformation and public health priorities during an official visit marked by new project milestones.

During the visit, Caroit, accompanied by Kenya’s Minister of Education Julius Ogambo, participated in the signing of the “Digitalization for TVET” project at the Kenya School of Technical and Vocational Training (TVET). The initiative aims to strengthen digital capabilities within Kenya’s technical and vocational education system, reflecting broader efforts to align skills development with evolving labour market demands.

France’s engagement forms part of coordinated cooperation under the “Team Europe” framework, which brings together European partners to support Kenya’s digital economy ambitions.

In the health sector, Caroit attended the official launch of a regional programme focused on combating sickle cell disease in Kenya and Tanzania. The initiative, co-financed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the Fondation Pierre Fabre, is designed to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the condition through an integrated partnership model.

The launch ceremony was held alongside Kenya’s Secretary of State for Health Mary Muthoni Muruiki. The programme is expected to support improved diagnosis, treatment access, and healthcare system capacity in addressing sickle cell disease, which remains a significant public health challenge across parts of Africa.

French officials described the projects as part of ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation between France and Kenya, particularly in areas linked to digital innovation, education, and global health.

Caroit emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration, noting that partnerships anchored in technology and healthcare are central to advancing shared development objectives.