Thousands of people protested in Nairobi against the 'Africa Forward' Summit. They gathered under the #PASAI2026 movement. Protesters voiced anger about foreign influence in Africa. They called it a 'battle for imperialism’s final political defeat.' The protests began on May 11, 2026.
Five students were arrested on May 11. They demonstrated against a France-Africa Summit. On May 12, 14 more protesters were detained. These included international visitors from Britain, South Korea, and France. They tried to give a petition to Kenya's Parliament. The movement used hashtags like #FranceOutOfAfrica and #StopFrenchImperialism. This helped them share their message quickly online. The internet became a tool to counter state actions. It alerted human rights groups to the detentions.
These online efforts connect local struggles to bigger issues. Activists link the Nairobi protests to resistance in the Sahel region. They also highlight concerns about debt from the IMF. The movement argues that many African nations face similar exploitation. This is part of what they call structural neo-colonialism. #PASAI2026 aims to unite these voices. They want a new Africa free from foreign dominance. This movement reflects a growing sentiment for self-determination across the continent.
Inside the PASAI sessions, discussions focused on dismantling official narratives. One workshop questioned 'Green Energy: For Whom?'. It pointed out that foreign green investments can displace communities. It also leads to the privatization of African resources. These projects often benefit European markets. PASAI organizers stated, 'We are witnessing a war council of imperialism.' They criticized 'green capitalism'. They argued the Global North’s resource needs drive the climate crisis. Africa suffers this crisis but did not create it.
The summit also examined security deals with foreign powers. Delegates criticized defense agreements. These gave French troops legal protections in Kenya. Experts called this 'military neo-colonialism.' Such deals can undermine a nation's sovereignty. Foreign military personnel might operate outside local laws. Organizers want to end this mix of military and economic control. Their main message is to make Nairobi a place of 'final political defeat' for imperialism.
The PASAI 2026 movement issued a 'Call to Action'. It asks global revolutionary groups to join their cause. This includes environmental groups and anti-militarist campaigners worldwide. They believe the fight for African dignity is a global one. As the 'Africa Forward' Summit ended, PASAI 2026 built new connections. These links formed between youth, women, and ecological groups. The 'Nairobi Declaration' signals a new path for Africa. The continent wants to control its own future.