Every July, Francophiles and French nationals around the world come together to mark Bastille Day — La Fête Nationale, a day that celebrates the French Revolution, but also the enduring values of liberty, equality, and fraternity. In Nairobi, this year’s celebration felt like a slice of Paris: elegant, spirited, and full of charm.
On the evening of July 14, I had the pleasure of attending a grand reception hosted by the French Ambassador to Kenya and Somalia, H.E. Mr. Arnaud Suquet, at the beautifully manicured Peponi Gardens residence in Westlands. It was one of those gatherings that effortlessly brought together diplomats, Govt delegations, business leaders, artists, media, and members of both the French and Kenyan communities, and reminded us of the richness that cross-cultural friendships bring.
It was a rather chilly evening, but that didn’t stop the invited guests from mingling under the open Nairobi sky, flutes of champagne in hand. Men arrived in tailored suits or smart casuals, while ladies styled the evening chill with elegant trench coats, chic cocktail dresses, and thoughtful accessories. From breezy linen to structured silhouettes, it was a showcase of effortless style.
In true French fashion, the culinary experience was nothing short of exquisite — a celebration of taste, technique, and tradition: it was a culinary love letter to Paris: cheeses, pastries, perfectly prepared meats, and wines that flowed throughout the night. But it wasn’t strictly French. There were beautiful Kenyan touches woven into the experience, reflecting the deep ties and mutual respect between the two nations.
In his speech, delivered in fluent Swahili, much to the delight of the guests who responded with loud applause and cheers throughout, Ambassador Suquet highlighted the strength of Franco-Kenyan relations. His ease with the Swahili language felt personal and warm, breaking the usual formality of such occasions and drawing the audience in with sincerity and charm. That Swahili speech landed perfectly.
Earlier in the week, the Ambassador had penned an op-ed in one of the local dailies, highlighting some of his country’s activities in Kenya, a presence that goes far beyond ceremony. Since 2015, over 150 projects have been supported, with investments totaling €1.8 billion. These span critical sectors from clean water and sustainable energy to entrepreneurship, transport, and healthcare. “The Franco-Kenyan partnership is grounded in mutual respect and a commitment to dialogue,” he wrote. “By working together, we can contribute to global efforts from reforming development finance to supporting equitable systems of international governance.”
Beyond the speeches and formalities, the evening unfolded in true French fashion: champagne flutes clinked, red wine flowed generously, and laughter danced through the air. The French have long mastered the art of entertaining, blending style, culture, and a certain joie de vivre that turns any gathering into something memorable. It’s no wonder France remains one of the most visited countries in the world.
