France Ends 65-Year Military Presence in Senegal – A New Era of African Sovereignty
France Exits Senegal After 65 Years of Military Presence France has officially handed over its last two military bases in Senegal , marking the end of a 65-year military presence in the West African nation. The handover, which concluded a three-month disengagement process , included the transfer of Camp Geille —France’s largest military base in Senegal—and the Dakar International Airport airfield . A formal ceremony took place in Senegal’s capital , attended by high-ranking officials from both countries, including: General Mbaye Cissé , Senegal’s Chief of Staff General Pascal Ianni , head of French forces in Africa Approximately 350 French troops , previously stationed for joint operations, have now departed , completing the full withdrawal. Senegal’s President Faye Keeps Promise on Sovereignty Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye , who came into power in 2024 on a radical change platform , […]