The Ivory Coast has become the latest African nation to cut military ties with France, marking a significant shift in the region’s relationship with its former colonial power. President Alassane Ouattara announced on Tuesday that the withdrawal of French troops would commence in January, ending a decades-long military presence in the country.
“We have decided on the concerted and organized withdrawal of French forces in Ivory Coast,” Ouattara said, noting that the Port Bouet military base, currently managed by French troops, would be handed over to Ivorian forces. France has maintained a contingent of approximately 600 soldiers in the country.
This decision aligns with a broader trend across West Africa, where several nations have recently called for the exit of French forces. Countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have experienced political instability and coups, have already expelled French troops. Senegal and Chad have also joined the movement, signaling a larger regional shift in military and political alliances.
France has been facing mounting pressure as its once-dominant influence on the continent continues to decline. Over the past decade, France has been ousted from more than 70% of the African countries where it previously maintained a military presence following the end of colonial rule. Today, French troops remain stationed in only a few African nations, including Djibouti and Gabon.
Also, read: Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu Named Among World’s Most Corrupt Figures in OCCRP Report
In response to the changing dynamics, France has introduced a new military strategy aimed at reducing its permanent troop deployments in Africa. However, this approach has done little to stem the wave of disengagement.
The withdrawal of French forces in countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger has created opportunities for new alliances, with several nations forging closer ties with Russia. Moscow has deployed Wagner Group mercenaries across the Sahel, a move that has raised international concerns.
These mercenaries have been accused of human rights abuses, including attacks on civilians.
Despite the shifts in alliances, security conditions in many of these nations have deteriorated. Extremist groups have intensified their attacks, leading to an increase in civilian casualties and further instability.
Ivory Coast’s decision to sever military ties with France underscores a broader transformation in Africa’s engagement with its former colonizers. Analysts suggest that the move reflects a growing desire for autonomy and a reevaluation of foreign partnerships.
As the region navigates this transition, the focus remains on how these changes will impact security, governance, and the balance of power in West Africa. Whether new alliances will bring stability or exacerbate existing challenges remains to be seen.
