Francophone Africa Turns Away from France: The End of an Era in Regional Influence
In a striking development, Côte d’Ivoire has joined a growing list of African nations severing military ties with France. President Alassane Ouattara announced that by January 2025, French forces will hand over their military base at Port-Bouet in Abidjan to the Ivorian military.
“We can be proud of our army, whose modernization is now effective. It is within this context that we have decided on the concerted and organized withdrawal of French forces,” Ouattara declared, surprising many, as he was once considered a close ally of France.
This decision makes Côte d’Ivoire the sixth African nation to request a French military withdrawal, following similar actions by Senegal and Chad, as well as Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger, which saw French troops expelled amid coups and anti-French sentiment.
A New Wave of Anti-French Sentiment
These moves are part of a broader rejection of France’s influence, rooted in its colonial past and its ongoing involvement in African affairs. Protests across the continent, particularly by younger generations, have highlighted resentment toward French military presence and control.
Historically, these African nations maintained strong economic and military ties with France even after independence, including hosting French military bases. However, this relationship has now soured, driven by accusations of neocolonialism, dissatisfaction with French counterterrorism efforts, and a desire for sovereignty.
France’s Waning Influence
French President Emmanuel Macron attempted to redefine France’s role in Africa by deploying former minister Jean-Marie Bockel to consult African leaders about the future of French military presence. This initiative resulted in troop reductions or complete withdrawals, with Chad, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire opting for the latter.
Macron’s comments at an ambassadors’ conference revealed the strain between France and its former allies. Referring to the withdrawal decisions, Macron remarked, “I think someone forgot to say thank you. None of them would be a sovereign country today if the French army hadn’t deployed in the region.”
This statement sparked backlash, with leaders from Chad and Senegal accusing Macron of arrogance and contempt toward African nations.
Shifting Alliances
The military withdrawals underscore a significant pivot in African geopolitics. Many countries are exploring partnerships with Russia and China, who are perceived as more respectful of national sovereignty. Unlike European nations, which often attach conditions like political reforms or human rights requirements, these new partners emphasize economic cooperation without preconditions.
Russia has supported anti-French sentiments in the Sahel, while China remains focused on economic investments, particularly in strategic sectors like mining. This shift away from France highlights a broader diversification of African nations’ international relationships.
What’s Next for France?
France has begun reconfiguring its defense partnerships in Africa, aiming to reduce its military presence and foster new forms of cooperation. Diplomatic sources indicate this approach seeks to rebuild trust and goodwill, albeit slowly.
Few analysts believe this recalibration could lead to stronger, more balanced relationships over time. “Because France took the trouble to ask these countries what their preferences were, this may actually foster goodwill,” said Paul Melly, a consulting fellow at Chatham House.
A Push for Sovereignty
The expulsion of French troops signals a new era for Francophone Africa, where nations are asserting their independence and seeking alternatives to traditional partnerships. While France’s role in Africa may diminish, this turning point reflects a broader desire for self-determination, economic autonomy, and diversified international relations.
