In a move signaling the end of a six-decade-long military relationship, France has formally completed the withdrawal of its troops from Chad. This development is part of a broader shift in the Sahel region, where several nations have reevaluated their ties with their former colonial power.
The second and final French military base in Chad, located in Abéché, was handed over to the Chadian authorities on Saturday. This symbolic transfer was marked by a ceremony attended by Chad’s Defence Minister, Issaka Malloua Djamouss, who described the event as a pivotal moment in the country’s history.
“Today marks the handover of the Abéché base,” Djamouss announced during the ceremony. He emphasized that the January 31 deadline for France’s complete withdrawal is “imperative, irreversible, and non-negotiable.”
A Gradual Departure
The withdrawal process began in December, with France gradually scaling down its presence in Chad. The first significant step was the transfer of the Faya base in northern Chad in mid-December. This was followed by the departure of fighter jets and 120 soldiers earlier in the same month. On Saturday, around 100 French troops vacated the Abéché base, with equipment convoys rolling out a day prior.
At its height, France maintained about 1,000 personnel in Chad, providing critical military training and air support. This assistance was instrumental in thwarting rebel groups attempting to overthrow the government.
However, Chad’s abrupt decision in November to terminate military cooperation with France marked the beginning of the end for this long-standing alliance. The move reflects growing discontent among Sahel nations over their reliance on foreign military forces and a desire to assert their sovereignty.
Historical Ties and Evolving Alliances
France’s military presence in Chad dates back to the country’s independence in 1960. Over the decades, it played a central role in maintaining stability, especially during periods of political turbulence.
“The partnership between our two nations has evolved, but the friendship remains,” said Fabien Talon, a representative of the French Embassy, at the handover ceremony in Abéché. He added, “Solidarity between our sovereign nations will continue as we move forward side by side.”
Despite these reassurances, the withdrawal underscores a shifting geopolitical landscape in Chad and the broader Sahel region. The military agreement that once defined Franco-Chadian relations is now seen as outdated and out of touch with current realities. President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, who assumed power in 2021 after his father’s death in combat, has been vocal about the need for a fresh approach.
“France’s presence was necessary in the past, but the dynamics have changed,” a Chadian political analyst noted. “The country is looking to diversify its alliances and assert its independence on the global stage.”
The Russia Factor
Chad’s pivot away from France mirrors similar trends in neighboring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso, which have also terminated military cooperation with France. Instead, many Sahel nations are exploring partnerships with Russia, albeit cautiously.
In Chad, discussions with Moscow have focused primarily on economic cooperation. While no major agreements have been finalized, the dialogue signals Chad’s intent to explore alternatives to its traditional alliances.
“Russia’s growing influence in Africa cannot be ignored,” a regional security expert said. “For Chad, engaging with Russia is as much about economics as it is about balancing power dynamics in the region.”
The End of Operation Barkhane
France’s withdrawal from Chad also marks the conclusion of its anti-jihadist Operation Barkhane, which once deployed over 5,000 troops across the Sahel. Initiated in 2014, the operation aimed to combat extremist groups in the region but faced increasing criticism for its perceived ineffectiveness and colonial undertones.
As the last Sahel nation to host French troops, Chad’s decision to sever ties with France signifies the end of an era. It also raises questions about the future of regional security, particularly in light of ongoing jihadist threats.
“France’s exit leaves a vacuum that must be addressed,” a retired military officer in N’Djamena warned. “Chad will need to strengthen its own capabilities and foster regional cooperation to maintain stability.”
Challenging Realities Ahead
Chad, one of the world’s poorest nations, faces significant challenges as it navigates this transition. The country is still recovering from the political and economic fallout of its recent leadership change. Déby, who was formally elected in May 2023 after a three-year transition, has prioritized economic reforms and security improvements.
“Chad is at a crossroads,” a university lecturer in N’Djamena remarked. “The withdrawal of French troops is both an opportunity and a risk. It’s an opportunity to redefine our sovereignty but also a risk if we fail to address the security gaps.”
Broader Implications for France and Africa
France’s diminishing role in the Sahel is emblematic of its declining influence in Africa. In recent years, anti-French sentiment has surged across the continent, fueled by perceptions of neocolonialism and dissatisfaction with French-led military interventions. “Partnerships must be based on mutual respect and shared interests,” a senior Chadian diplomat commented. “The old model of dependency is no longer viable.”
