Several African countries have recently ordered the withdrawal of foreign troops, particularly French forces, as part of a broader shift toward asserting national sovereignty and reevaluating foreign military partnerships. This trend reflects growing anti-French sentiment and a desire for greater autonomy in security matters.
Here is a list of 6 African nations that have taken such actions:
🇲🇱 Mali
In 2022, Mali’s military-led government terminated its defense agreements with France, leading to the withdrawal of French troops. The decision was influenced by rising anti-French sentiment and the government’s pursuit of alternative security partnerships, including with Russian entities.
🇧🇫 Burkina Faso
Following a military coup in 2022, Burkina Faso’s transitional government ended its military accord with France in January 2023. Approximately 400 French special forces were withdrawn, and the country has since sought security assistance from other partners.
🇳🇪 Niger
After a coup in July 2023, Niger’s junta expelled French troops and terminated military agreements with France. The move was part of a broader realignment of the country’s foreign policy and security partnerships.
🇹🇩 Chad
In November 2024, Chad announced the termination of its defense and security cooperation agreement with France, leading to the withdrawal of approximately 1,000 French troops by early 2025. The decision was framed as an assertion of national sovereignty.
🇸🇳 Senegal
Senegal’s government declared in December 2024 its intention to close all foreign military bases, effectively ending France’s military presence by September 2025. The announcement was part of a broader policy to assert national sovereignty and reevaluate foreign military partnerships.
🇨🇮 Ivory Coast
In January 2025, Ivory Coast announced the withdrawal of French troops and took control of the last remaining French military base in the country. The decision was presented as a mutual agreement reflecting the modernization of the Ivorian military and a shift toward greater autonomy.
These developments signify a significant shift in Africa’s geopolitical landscape, with countries reassessing their military alliances and seeking to establish more autonomous security frameworks.