France Ends 65-Year Military Presence in Senegal, Signifying a New Era in African Relation
On a landmark decision, France today formally concluded its 65-year military presence in Senegal, handing back its last remaining bases. This historic move marks a significant turning point in France's relationship with its former African colonies and signals a broader shift in geopolitical dynamics across the continent. With this withdrawal, France will no longer maintain permanent military camps in West and Central Africa, with Djibouti now serving as its sole anticipated permanent base in Africa.
Senegal's Push for Sovereignty Drives Withdrawal
The decision to end France's long-standing military footprint in Senegal was a direct result of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's directive. Faye, who swept to power in 2024 on a mandate for radical change and a re-evaluation of ties with Paris, had unequivocally called for the withdrawal of French troops by the end of 2025. He firmly asserted that the ongoing presence of foreign military bases is fundamentally incompatible with Senegal's sovereignty.
A Continent-Wide Trend: Africa Reasserts Independence
Senegal's action is part of a broader, accelerating trend across West and Central Africa. Many former French colonies are actively reassessing and redefining their relationships with France, increasingly asserting their national sovereignty. This includes countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad, all of whom have already terminated defense agreements with France and witnessed the withdrawal of French forces.
Key Drivers Behind the French Military Exit
Several factors underpin this significant military withdrawal:
Assertion of Sovereignty: At its core, Senegal's move is driven by a profound desire to exercise its full sovereignty and independence, viewing foreign military bases as an unwelcome relic of its colonial past.
Growing Anti-French Sentiment: There's been a noticeable rise in anti-French sentiment across some former colonies. This sentiment is often fueled by perceptions of neo-colonialism and a widespread belief that French military interventions have largely failed to curb the spread of jihadist groups in the Sahel region.
Diversification of Partnerships: African nations are increasingly broadening their international alliances beyond traditional Western partners. They are actively forging stronger ties with countries like China, India, the Gulf States, and, notably for some Sahelian nations, Russia.
Fulfillment of Election Promises: President Faye's commitment to withdraw French troops was a cornerstone of his election campaign, resonating strongly with public opinion.
Historical Context: The timing of Senegal's decision also carries historical weight, coinciding with significant anniversaries like the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre, a painful reminder of colonial-era violence against West African soldiers who fought for France in World War II.
An Amicable Departure, a Strategic Shift
Unlike some of the more contentious French withdrawals observed in the Sahel, the process in Senegal has been described as notably more amicable. While Senegal was resolute in its demand for the military presence to cease, President Faye has stressed that Senegal will continue to collaborate with Paris as an important partner in other crucial sectors, including trade and investment.
This withdrawal aligns with a broader strategic shift in France's military approach to Africa. Since 2022, under President Emmanuel Macron, France has been planning a comprehensive restructuring of its military presence on the continent. The aim is to transition to a less entrenched, less exposed model, with a greater emphasis on joint training exercises, enhancing interoperability, and adapting military cooperation to the specific needs articulated by African nations, rather than maintaining large, permanent bases.
The departure of the French army from Senegal unequivocally marks a new chapter in the evolving relationship between France and its former African colonies, underscoring a growing push for self-reliance and diversified international partnerships across the continent.
