France Ends Permanent Military Presence in Senegal, Marking Shift in Regional Strategy

 

France officially ended its long-standing military presence in Senegal on Thursday, handing over control of its last major base in the West African country. In a symbolic ceremony, General Pascal Ianni, commander of French forces in Africa, transferred Camp Geille in Dakar to Senegalese authorities. The Senegalese flag was raised and the national anthem played as the transfer marked a major milestone in the reshaping of France’s role in the region.

See also:  Barcelona Signs €40 Million Sponsorship Deal with DR Congo to Boost Tourism

This move follows Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s declaration that permanent foreign military bases were incompatible with the country’s sovereignty. France and Senegal agreed to a full withdrawal by the end of the year, with the process beginning in March with the handover of two other bases in Dakar. Unlike more abrupt or tense withdrawals from Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad where military regimes have expelled French troops and shifted alliances toward Russia Senegal's transition has remained cordial.

France had maintained a military presence in Senegal for over 200 years, dating back to colonial times. General Ianni said the withdrawal reflects a new phase of cooperation focused on training, intelligence sharing, and responding to requests for support rather than maintaining permanent bases.

Senegal’s military chief, General Mbaye Cisse, welcomed the continued partnership, emphasizing that training and information exchanges would continue under the new arrangement. He expressed hope that the deep historical ties between the two nations would form a foundation for future collaboration.

The presence of French troops in Senegal had long drawn criticism, particularly over unresolved historical grievances like the 1944 massacre of African soldiers who had fought for France in World War Two. With this move, Senegal reasserts its sovereignty while maintaining strategic ties with its former colonial ruler under revised terms.