France officially ended its 60-year military presence in Chad by closing its last base. The Kosseï camp in N’Djamena was the final French military installation in the Sahel. This base symbolized France’s colonial influence, which once dominated the region.
On Friday, the last 1,000 French soldiers left Chad, marking the end of an era. The decision followed increasing anti-French sentiment in the region. In November 2023, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby terminated defense agreements with France.
This move aligned with a broader regional shift. Since 2022, France has withdrawn from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The trend may continue, as Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire recently called for the departure of French troops.
African Nations Seek Sovereignty and New Alliances
Many West African nations now aim to establish new partnerships and redefine their political paths. “These countries want to guarantee their sovereignty, make independent decisions, and form new alliances,” said Euronews journalist Jeremiah Fisayo Bambi.
While Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger distanced themselves from France after military coups, Chad has taken a different approach. N’Djamena described the decision as a sovereign choice, not a complete break with France.
Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire also stress that their stance towards Paris remains the same. “This sends a clear signal that they no longer want French troops,” said Nina Wilén, director of the Africa programme at the Egmont Institute.
Despite military withdrawals, diplomatic ties remain. “The French embassy in Mali is still operating, and some cooperation continues,” Wilén added. This suggests that complete disengagement is not imminent.
European Influence in West Africa Declines
Chad’s decision weakened France’s presence, but it also diminished the European Union’s influence in West Africa. “Many EU leaders relied on France for regional security,” Wilén explained.
France led the largest counterterrorism operation in the Sahel over the past decade. Many European nations benefited from this, avoiding direct military involvement. However, France’s approach to local governments and EU hesitation to invest contributed to their declining influence.
The French military exit leaves a power vacuum in West Africa, opening the door for other international actors. Russia is a major player, with the Wagner Group, now rebranded as Africa Corps, deploying 5,000 fighters across the continent.
To maintain regional influence, France and the EU must reconsider their strategies. Without a stronger commitment, their role in West Africa may continue to fade.