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By Jasmine Atieno
Mombasa, Kenya: On January 22nd, Mombasa became the stage for a story that stretches across centuries and continents. The French and German embassies in Kenya marked Élysée Day, celebrating the 1963 treaty that turned historic enemies into Europe’s closest partners. But this year’s commemoration went beyond diplomacy—it focused on how that hard-won peace is now creating opportunities for young Kenyans.
France and Germany’s shared past is scarred by three devastating wars: the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871), World War I (1914–1918), and World War II (1939–1945). From the ashes of conflict emerged a visionary commitment to reconciliation. The Élysée Treaty, signed by French President Charles de Gaulle and German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, ended centuries of hostility and laid the groundwork for the European Union. Today, the two nations drive nearly half of the EU’s economy—a powerful symbol of how former adversaries can become architects of shared progress.
This year’s celebrations in Mombasa blended reflection with forward-looking dialogue. At Alliance Française, educators, diplomats, and students discussed language learning and employability. Later, Swahilipot Hub hosted a vibrant evening of discussion, film, and music, centered on Franco-German reconciliation—and its tangible benefits for Kenya.
French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet highlighted the people-to-people impact of this partnership. “I’m thrilled to be in Mombasa with my friend Sebastian to celebrate Franco-German friendship. Our countries have put the past behind them and now work together to promote arts, culture, and education,” he said. “Our teaching assistant program has already supported 120 Kenyan students, and we are welcoming a new cohort of 700–800. It’s a win-win: they explore new cultures, gain skills, and return home with a competitive edge.”
German Ambassador Sebastian Groth anchored the event in history and hope. “Between 1870 and 1945, France and Germany fought three wars that claimed millions of lives. The Élysée Treaty transformed Europe. Today, we share a responsibility to strengthen peace—not only in Europe, but here in Africa.”
Addressing Kenya’s youth unemployment crisis, where only 15% of the nearly one million young people entering the labor market annually find formal employment, Groth pointed to practical pathways opened by bilateral agreements. A 2024 labor migration pact between Germany and Kenya is already creating opportunities. For example, Mount Kenya University now partners with the University of Applied Sciences in Koblenz to train nurses in both language and professional skills, scaling from 30–40 to over 150 nurses per year. Another new partnership with Bavaria’s hospitality federation will soon place Kenyan youth in German restaurants and hotels, with the first 20 candidates already selected.
The day also highlighted personal journeys. Harriet Akala, a B2-level German student at Goethe-Institute Mombasa, resigned from her job as a fisheries officer to fully pursue German studies. She aims to relocate for a master’s in food science at Berlin University of Applied Sciences. “Germany stood out because of affordable education, strong support systems, and opportunities for students to work part-time. I visited Berlin in December—the experience confirmed that Germany is where I want to build my future,” she shared.
Birggita Azey, a French teacher at Alliance Française, described how learning French from primary school through advanced studies unlocked internships, teaching roles, and a seven-month assistantship in France. “It’s been a game-changer. I’ve traveled, found jobs, and connected across cultures—all thanks to French,” she reflected.
Alliance Française Director Vasilena Koleva emphasized the institution’s deep local roots. “We are a Kenyan association, here in Mombasa for over 50 years. Partnering with Goethe-Institut to offer French and German side by side is a living example of Franco-German friendship.” Through partnerships with local universities and schools, Alliance Française provides internationally recognized certifications like DELF and DALF, opening doors to higher education and careers abroad.
Élysée Day in Mombasa was more than a diplomatic anniversary. It was a celebration of reconciliation turned into opportunity—from the memory of war to the sound of live music and the ambitions of students. As France and Germany deepen their partnership, their work in Kenya sends a powerful message: peace is built not only through treaties, but through education, cultural exchange, and the courage of young people to reach for new horizons.
