France on Thursday formally handed over control of its last major military facility in Senegal, bringing an end to its longstanding armed forces presence in the West African nation. The move signals a significant shift in France’s broader military posture in the region, and follows Senegal’s recent push for greater sovereignty.

During a symbolic ceremony in Dakar, General Pascal Ianni, the commander of French forces in Africa, presented the key to Camp Geille to the Senegalese military. The Senegalese national flag was raised to the sound of the country’s anthem, performed by military musicians.

“Today’s transfer of Camp Geille marks a new stage in the evolution of the partnership between our two armed forces,” said Ianni. “It is a response to the Senegalese authorities’ wish to no longer have permanent foreign forces present on their territory.”

The decision aligns with a broader policy shift under Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who last year declared that the continued presence of French military bases was incompatible with national sovereignty. Both countries agreed to a phased withdrawal of French troops by the end of 2024. The process began in March, with France relinquishing control of two other facilities in Dakar.

Unlike the tense and abrupt withdrawals seen in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—where military juntas have expelled French forces and turned to Russia for military support—France’s disengagement from Senegal has been orderly and cooperative. Chad, another key regional partner, also terminated its defence pact with France last year, prompting the withdrawal of French troops.

General Ianni noted that France’s military presence in Senegal spanned over two centuries but said the evolving geopolitical landscape demanded a new approach. Moving forward, France intends to focus its regional efforts on military training, intelligence-sharing, and offering support only when requested.

General Mbaye Cisse, Chief of Staff of Senegal’s armed forces, welcomed the transition, stating that the new partnership framework would maintain channels for training and information exchange.

“We wish all our comrades and their families a safe return to France,” Cisse said. “We believe the strong historical ties between our countries will continue to serve as a solid foundation for cooperation.”

The withdrawal also revives long-standing historical grievances. France, Senegal’s former colonial ruler, has faced criticism for maintaining military bases decades after the country’s independence in 1960. Senegal has consistently called on Paris to acknowledge and fully investigate the 1944 massacre of African soldiers who had fought for France in World War II.

With the formal end of France’s military footprint in Senegal, both nations now turn a page in their relationship—one that places greater emphasis on equality, mutual respect, and sovereignty.

Melissa Enoch

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