NAIROBI, Kenya, May 12 – The CMA CGM Foundation announced new ambitious initiatives during the Africa Forward Summit held in Nairobi on May 11 and 12, 2026.
The Foundation, which at its core supports humanitarian aid and education, revealed plans to complete renovation of the country’s leading institution, the University of Nairobi’s main football field in a move projected to benefit over 50,000 students.
The project being undertaken with the University of Nairobi and the French Development Agency (AFD) is set to enable the creation of a modern, sustainable football field adapted to climate-related challenges, particularly those from the five faculties located on the university’s main campus.
In addition, the Foundation also committed to support the Kenyan Red Cross in expanding the reception capacity of the I.O.Me001 Social Innovation Centre, to further develop training programs in entrepreneurship and coding. The innovation center, which acts as a specialized hub for youth and women to develop skills, build businesses, and create local solutions, was launched in September 2023 in Mombasa, Kenya. It is also supported by the Kenya Red Cross Society and the French Embassy.
Tanya Saadé Zeenny, President of the CMA CGM Foundation, told Capital FM in a statement that alongside “the University of Nairobi and the Kenyan Red Cross” as partners, the Foundation wants “to create opportunities for Kenya’s young generation, whether by supporting students at the University of Nairobi, empowering young entrepreneurs in Mombasa, or strengthening humanitarian aid for vulnerable communities.”
To date, the Foundation has transported 120,000 tons of humanitarian aid to 160 countries, supported more than 100,000 children through its educational initiatives worldwide, and assisted 67 entrepreneurs through its social incubator, Le Phare.
