Wadid Benaabou has officially begun his assignment in Nairobi as France’s new Ambassador-designate to Kenya, taking over a diplomatic mission that has been led by Arnaud Suquet for the past four years.
Benaabou confirmed the start of his posting on Monday, saying he was honoured to represent France in Kenya and would work with local partners to build on the relationship between the two countries.
“Hello, Kenyans! 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.
“I look forward to working closely with our Kenyan partners”
His appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Kenya was made through a presidential decree dated August 7, 2026.
The new envoy brings years of experience in French foreign policy and international affairs, having served in a number of senior government and diplomatic positions.
Prior to his arrival in Kenya, Benaabou worked as a senior adviser at France’s Court of Auditors.
He also held various positions at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including deputy director of the North Africa and Middle East Division.
At the ministry, he also served as the desk officer responsible for Libya.
Benaabou has further represented France at the United Nations Security Council in New York, where he served as Political Coordinator and Deputy Political Coordinator for the French delegation.
His previous assignments also include serving as an adviser on North Africa and the Middle East to former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna.
Beyond government, Benaabou worked in the office of UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and taught international affairs at Sciences Po in Paris.
He succeeds Suquet, who has now completed his diplomatic assignment in Kenya.
Suquet marked his departure by reflecting on the relationships he developed during his time in the country, saying he was leaving with lasting memories and friendships.
“My journey in Kenya has come to an end, but I leave behind strong ties, great memories and genuine friendship,” Suquet said.
He also extended his best wishes to his successor as Benaabou takes charge of the French mission in Nairobi.
“I wish Ambassador-designate Wadid Benaabou, who takes over from me, all the best as he begins this new chapter,” Suquet said.
Benaabou takes up the position at a time when Kenya and France continue to work together in trade and investment, development, security, climate action and multilateral diplomacy.