France Ends Permanent Troop Presence in Senegal

France has officially ended its permanent military presence in Senegal, a symbolic move that marks the closing of a significant chapter in the long and complex relationship between the two countries. On Thursday, France handed over control of its last major military base in Senegal, Camp Geille in Ouakam, Dakar, bringing an end to more than two centuries of French armed presence in the West African nation.

During a ceremonial handover, General Pascal Ianni, commander of French forces in Africa, handed over a ceremonial key to Senegalese officials. As Senegalese troops raised their national flag and the anthem echoed through the base, the moment underscored a peaceful yet powerful assertion of national sovereignty.

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

The withdrawal comes after Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, elected on a platform of reform and sovereignty, declared last year that the continued presence of French military bases was incompatible with Senegal’s full independence. The two governments agreed to a gradual and orderly process, which began in March with the handover of two other French military installations in Dakar.

Unlike the strained exits of French forces from other former colonies—such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, where new military governments expelled French troops and welcomed Russian security assistance—Senegal’s transition has been relatively smooth and diplomatic. France and Senegal have opted to maintain their military partnership in a revised form that focuses on cooperation rather than control.

General Mbaye Cissé, head of the Senegalese armed forces, affirmed that the end of France’s permanent base would not mean the end of collaboration. “The new agreement will allow Senegal to continue benefiting from training and the exchange of information,” he said. He also wished the departing French troops and their families a safe journey home and acknowledged the historical ties that bind the two nations.

France’s presence in Senegal traces back more than 200 years, beginning during colonial times when Dakar became a central hub for French West Africa. While France officially granted Senegal independence in 1960, its military footprint in the country persisted through strategic bases and bilateral defence agreements—something that has drawn increasing scrutiny from Senegalese citizens and civil society groups over the years.

There are also lingering demands for France to fully acknowledge and investigate historical injustices, including the massacre of African soldiers in 1944. These soldiers, known as “Tirailleurs Sénégalais,” fought for France during World War II but were executed by French forces in Thiaroye after protesting unfair treatment.

As France continues a broader military retreat from the Sahel and West Africa amid growing regional skepticism of foreign influence, the handover of Camp Geille represents more than a logistical shift—it is a statement of changing geopolitical priorities in Francophone Africa. Yet, both sides hope their long and complex history can form the basis of a modern, mutual partnership built on respect, rather than residual colonial dynamics.