Sahel: What you need to know about the withdrawal of French forces from Côte d’Ivoire
The French military presence in Africa is undergoing a major redefinition with the announcement of the withdrawal of French troops from Côte d’Ivoire. After Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, it is now the turn of Alassane Dramane Ouattara’s country to join this movement by formalizing the transfer of the 43rd Marine Infantry Battalion (BIMA) base, located in Port-Bouët, Abidjan, to the Ivorian Armed Forces (FACI).
This decision, announced by President Ouattara during his year-end address in 2024, marks a pivotal step in modernizing the Ivorian military. The head of state emphasized the significance of this development, stating: “We must be proud of the evolution of our army. In this context, we have decided on a concerted and orderly withdrawal of the French forces”.
The withdrawal of French troops, scheduled for January 2025, comes as part of a broader movement toward reaffirming the sovereignty of African states. Although the decision was made collaboratively, it reflects the growing desire of nations on the continent to strengthen their internal military capacities and reduce dependence on foreign powers.
This transition is welcomed beyond Ivorian borders, signaling a Pan-African momentum toward greater strategic autonomy. By equipping themselves with enhanced means to ensure their own security, African countries are gradually reshaping their geopolitical landscape and asserting their place on the international stage.
