France’s decision to withdraw its forces from its first military base in Chad marks a significant moment in the evolving dynamics of Franco-African relations. For decades, France has maintained a strong military presence in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, where it has positioned itself as a key actor in combating terrorism and fostering regional stability. However, the withdrawal signals a shift in strategy and highlights changing perspectives on France’s role in Africa.
The Chadian capital, N’Djamena, has been a cornerstone of France’s military presence in the Sahel. The base served as a critical hub for “Operation Barkhane,” France’s flagship counterterrorism mission launched in 2014 to address the growing threat of jihadist groups in the region. Despite some successes, the operation faced criticism for failing to fully stabilize the Sahel and for inadvertently fueling anti-French sentiment among local populations.
The withdrawal comes amidst mounting public discontent in Chad and across the Sahel against France’s military involvement. Many view the prolonged presence of French troops as a legacy of neo-colonial influence, with accusations that such deployments prioritize French strategic interests over the needs of the host nations. Protests in N’Djamena and other Sahelian capitals have called for France to leave, echoing a broader regional demand for sovereignty and self-determination.
France’s decision also aligns with its broader recalibration of military engagements in Africa. Following its complete withdrawal from Mali in 2022 after a breakdown in relations with the Malian junta, France has been rethinking its footprint in the region. President Emmanuel Macron has expressed a desire to reduce dependency on foreign bases and shift to a more collaborative approach, emphasizing partnerships with African-led security initiatives.
For Chad, the withdrawal opens both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, it removes a critical layer of immediate military support against terrorist threats, placing greater responsibility on Chadian forces to secure their borders and maintain internal stability. On the other hand, it allows Chad to assert its sovereignty and reduce its reliance on external powers, fostering the development of independent defense capabilities.
In the broader context, France’s withdrawal reflects a growing movement in Africa to redefine relationships with former colonial powers. While the decision could leave a security vacuum in the short term, it also represents a chance for African nations like Chad to build stronger, more autonomous security frameworks and strengthen regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges.
