French President Emmanuel Macron faces a dual crisis: domestic discontent and diminishing international relevance. While political instability at home highlights challenges to his leadership, an arguably greater test of his presidency is unfolding in Francophone Africa, where France’s once-dominant influence is rapidly eroding.
Recent announcements by Chad and Senegal to terminate their military agreements with Paris epitomize this decline. Once pivotal to France’s military and geopolitical strategy in Africa, these nations’ rejection of French troops underscores a growing sentiment: African nations are reclaiming their sovereignty and reassessing their post-colonial relationships.
Across the Sahel, this rejection of French influence has been even more pronounced. Countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have moved decisively to expel French forces, often seeking alternative partnerships. Mali’s collaboration with Russia’s Wagner Group and Niger’s termination of its agreements with both France and the U.S. reflect a broader recalibration of alliances. These shifts highlight a disillusionment with France’s military interventions, which are increasingly seen as symbols of neocolonial control rather than security guarantees. Moreover, African leaders are expanding their options, forming relationships with nations like China, Türkiye, and India, which focus on infrastructure development and economic cooperation rather than military aid.
In an effort to regain relevance, France has turned its attention to Anglophone African nations, where its colonial legacy is less pronounced. Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has become a focal point for Paris, with significant bilateral agreements spanning infrastructure, energy, and banking. Similarly, efforts to deepen ties with Kenya and Rwanda indicate a broader strategy to diversify alliances. Yet this pivot is not without its challenges. Many in these regions remain skeptical of France’s intentions, questioning whether Paris can transition from a history of resource exploitation and military-first engagement to truly equal partnerships. Building trust will require more than agreements; it demands a commitment to sustainable, mutually beneficial development.
As France repositions itself, it must contend with the reality of a multipolar world where Africa is increasingly charting its own course. Historical ties and military agreements alone no longer suffice to secure influence. Macron’s administration must prioritize genuine partnerships that respect African agency and align with the continent’s aspirations.
Failing to adapt risks consigning France to the geopolitical sidelines, leaving Macron’s vision for a globally relevant France unfulfilled. To remain a meaningful player in Africa’s future, Paris must move beyond outdated notions of hegemony and embrace the complexities of a rapidly changing world.
Opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Mobanle editorial policy.
