France has completed the withdrawal of its military forces from Senegal, ending its permanent troop presence in West Africa. This move reflects a broader regional backlash against France’s colonial legacy and declining influence in its former African colonies.
The French military handed over Camp Geille, its largest base in Senegal, and a nearby air facility to the Senegalese government during a ceremony in Dakar. About 350 French troops left Senegal over three months, beginning in March.
General Pascal Ianni, head of French forces in Africa, said the withdrawal aligns with France’s decision to close permanent military bases in West and Central Africa and respects Senegal’s desire not to host foreign troops permanently.
Senegal’s military chief, General Mbaye Cissé, emphasized the move supports the country’s new defense strategy aimed at strengthening the autonomy of Senegalese forces and contributing to regional and global peace.
France had maintained a military presence in Senegal since its independence in 1960, under longstanding cooperation agreements. The withdrawal followed a call by Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye last year to end all foreign military presence, citing national sovereignty.
