Ivory Coast Becomes Sixth African Country To Expel French Troops From Its Soil

In a significant development reflecting the shifting dynamics of West Africa, the Government of Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) has announced that French troops stationed in the country will begin their withdrawal in January 2025. President Alassane Ouattara revealed this decision during his end-of-year address, emphasizing that the move aligns with the modernization of the Ivorian armed forces and a redefinition of military partnerships.

Since Ivory Coast gained independence from France in 1960, French troops have maintained a presence in the country, with up to 600 soldiers stationed at the Port Bouet military base near Abidjan. This arrangement, a remnant of France’s colonial past, was intended to provide security and support stability in the region. However, the Ivorian government has decided to take full control of the base, marking a symbolic and strategic step towards greater autonomy in its defense capabilities.

“We have decided on the concerted and organized withdrawal of French forces,” President Ouattara stated. “This decision reflects the modernization of our armed forces and our commitment to self-reliance in ensuring national security.”

Ivory Coast’s decision is part of a larger trend in West Africa, where nations are increasingly reassessing their military relationships with former colonial powers. Over the past few years, several countries in the region have terminated defense agreements or expelled foreign troops, citing dissatisfaction with their effectiveness in addressing security challenges.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, for instance, have all demanded the withdrawal of French forces following military coups in their respective nations. Chad ended its defense cooperation agreement with France in November 2024, while Senegal announced plans to close all French military bases on its territory by the end of 2025.

The trend highlights growing frustration among West African nations regarding the perceived neocolonial dynamics of foreign military presence. Critics argue that these arrangements have failed to address pressing security concerns, such as terrorism and insurgencies, while limiting the sovereignty of host nations.

The dissatisfaction with Western military interventions has prompted many African nations to explore alternative partnerships. Russia, in particular, has emerged as a key player in the region. The Russian Foreign Ministry responded to Ivory Coast’s announcement by stating that the withdrawal of French troops reflects a broader sentiment in Francophone West Africa, where populations are increasingly critical of the presence of foreign forces.

“This generally fits into the logic of the processes taking place in the Francophone countries of West Africa,” the ministry said. “The planned exit of French troops demonstrates they are no longer needed in the country.”

While Russia’s involvement in Africa has drawn its own share of criticism, many African leaders view such partnerships as an opportunity to diversify their international relationships and reduce dependence on Western powers.

France’s military presence in Africa has been a subject of controversy for decades. Proponents argue that French troops play a crucial role in combating terrorism and maintaining stability in volatile regions. However, the effectiveness of these efforts has been questioned, particularly in the Sahel, where insurgencies have continued to escalate despite significant foreign intervention.

In response to the growing backlash, Paris is rethinking its military strategy on the continent. French officials have indicated plans to reduce permanent troop deployments and focus on more targeted operations. France currently retains 1,500 soldiers in Djibouti and a smaller contingent of around 350 troops in Gabon.

The shift in strategy reflects France’s recognition of the changing political landscape in Africa, where governments and populations are increasingly asserting their independence and demanding a greater say in their security arrangements.

For Ivory Coast, the withdrawal of French troops represents both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, it underscores the country’s confidence in its growing military capabilities and its desire to assert greater sovereignty. On the other hand, it raises questions about how the Ivorian government will address potential security threats without the backing of a longstanding ally.

The modernization of the Ivorian armed forces will be crucial in ensuring a smooth transition. As President Ouattara emphasized, the withdrawal is being carried out in a “concerted and organized” manner to minimize disruptions.

The withdrawal of French troops from Ivory Coast marks another chapter in the evolving relationship between West Africa and its former colonial powers. As nations in the region continue to redefine their military and political alliances, the focus is shifting towards self-reliance and diversified partnerships.

While the long-term impact of these changes remains uncertain, one thing is clear: West Africa is entering a new era, one characterized by greater autonomy, a reassessment of traditional alliances, and a determination to chart its own path forward.

This pivotal moment offers both challenges and opportunities for Ivory Coast and the broader region, as they navigate the complexities of modern security and governance in an increasingly multipolar world.