Hilarious moment as Mudavadi, French minister groove to 'Donjo Maber'

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot dance to the hit song Donjo Maber at the Africa Forward Summit /HANDOUT

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Monday lit up the atmosphere at the ongoing Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi.

The two broke into dance following high-level discussions on Africa’s future.

In a moment that drew loud cheers and laughter from delegates and guests, the two leaders took to the stage and danced energetically to the hit Kenyan song “Donjo Maber” during one of the summit’s sessions.

The lively scene offered a lighter side to the otherwise serious summit that has brought together heads of state, innovators, diplomats and business leaders from across Africa and beyond for discussions on trade, innovation, climate action and global cooperation.

As the upbeat tune filled the hall, Mudavadi and Barrot confidently matched steps, entertaining guests who responded with applause and chants.

The French minister appeared to quickly grasp the rhythm of the popular Kenyan hit, moving enthusiastically to the beat alongside his Kenyan host.

Guests at the event could be seen standing from their seats to cheer on the pair, while many pulled out their phones to capture photos and videos of the moment that quickly became one of the highlights of the summit.

Among those enjoying the dance was James Mwangi, the Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group Holdings, who was also seen dancing and applauding the two leaders as the music played.

At the end of the performance, Barrot excitedly addressed the audience in a mix of Swahili and Sheng, earning even louder cheers from the crowd.

“Nairobi niaje?” the French minister shouted.

“Mko salama?” he added, drawing laughter and applause from guests impressed by his attempt to connect with the local audience.

“Donjo Maber,” the song that got the leaders dancing, has become one of Kenya’s biggest party anthem since its release in July last year.

The hit by Kenyan singer Iyanii featuring Dufla Diligon is a vibrant Afropop and dancehall track that has dominated local radio stations, clubs and social media platforms.

The title is derived from the luo language and the song is widely celebrated for its catchy hook and energetic dance vibe.

The summit itself is being held under the joint patronage of William Ruto and Emmanuel Macron and is taking place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre and the University of Nairobi on May 11 and 12.

Organisers say the gathering seeks to redefine relations between Africa and France by promoting partnerships anchored on equality, mutual respect and shared prosperity.

The forum has attracted more than 1,500 economic and institutional leaders from Africa and France and is focusing on innovation, investment opportunities and solutions to emerging global challenges.

The summit comes at a time when African countries are increasingly demanding a stronger voice in global decision-making, climate financing, trade and sustainable development discussions.

But amid the serious conversations shaping the continent’s future, it was the spontaneous dance between Mudavadi and Barrot that stole the show and left delegates talking long after the music stopped.