DAKAR, Senegal — On Friday, France transferred control of two military installations to Senegal, signaling the start of the formal withdrawal of its military forces from the West African nation as its influence in the area diminishes.
This transition came after the announcement by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, at the end of the previous year, that all foreign military forces would be required to leave the country.
The French Embassy in Senegal released a statement on Friday confirming, “The French authorities have handed over the facilities and housing located in the Maréchal and Saint-Exupéry districts on March 7, 2025.” These areas are situated near Hann Park and had been prepared for return since the summer of 2024.
Last month, France and Senegal established a joint commission to manage the withdrawal process. The French army announced that it had let go of 162 Senegalese workers who were previously employed at military installations in Dakar.
A request for further details on the remaining French military personnel in Senegal went unanswered by the French Embassy as of late Friday.
The incoming Senegalese government has taken a firm position against the presence of French troops, reflecting a broader regional reaction against what is perceived as vestiges of a colonial past.
In recent years, France has encountered criticism from several African leaders for what they view as a condescending and forceful approach towards the continent. France has faced challenges in its relations with West Africa, no longer maintaining troop presence in countries like Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Moving forward, France has expressed intentions to significantly scale back its military presence across Africa, excluding Djibouti. This retrenchment involves the current 350 French troops stationed in Senegal. The French government has proposed to offer defense training or specific military assistance tailored to the needs identified by individual African nations.
