Senegal Ends 65-Year French Military Presence, Citing Sovereignty

Senegal Ends 65-Year French Military Presence, Citing Sovereignty

ESTHER SALIFU, Abuja

Senegal has officially concluded France’s 65-year military presence by taking control of the final two French bases, following President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s directive for all foreign troops to depart by 2025.

This move underscores Senegal’s commitment to full sovereignty and reflects a broader trend of diminishing French influence in West Africa.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye emphasized the importance of this transition, stating, “Senegal is an independent country, it is a sovereign country, and sovereignty does not accept the presence of military bases in a sovereign country.”

The withdrawal aligns with France’s broader strategy to reduce its military presence in Africa, following similar exits from Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad. Analysts note that these moves respond to growing anti-French sentiment and a desire among African nations to redefine their international partnerships.

Despite the military withdrawal, President Faye affirmed that Senegal seeks to maintain strong economic and cultural ties with France. “France remains an important partner for Senegal in terms of investment, the presence of French companies, and even French citizens residing in Senegal,” he remarked.

The handover of the bases not only symbolizes a step toward greater autonomy for Senegal but also reflects a regional shift as West African countries reevaluate their foreign alliances and assert their sovereignty on the global stage.