The future of military cooperation between France and Senegal hangs in the balance as negotiations over defence relations are set to begin. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s backing of the closure of French military bases in Senegal has raised serious concerns in both Paris and Dakar, fueling speculation of a potential end to decades of bilateral security collaboration.
France has maintained a military presence in Senegal since the country’s independence in 1960, with bases serving as strategic hubs for counterterrorism operations in West Africa. However, Faye’s recent stance reflects a broader push for sovereignty and a shift away from post-colonial military dependencies, echoing similar moves by neighboring countries such as Mali and Burkina Faso.
Both Senegalese and French officials acknowledge that the upcoming negotiations will be decisive. While some are hopeful for a revised framework of defence cooperation, others fear an outright break-up is on the horizon. This possibility has sparked unease within military ranks, as the Senegalese Armed Forces have long relied on French training, intelligence-sharing, and logistical support. A full withdrawal of French forces could leave security gaps at a time when regional instability remains a pressing concern.
For Paris, losing Senegal as a defence partner would mark another setback in its diminishing influence across Francophone Africa. Following France’s recent military expulsions from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, Senegal was seen as one of the last pillars of French strategic presence in the region. French defence officials are reportedly scrambling to salvage ties, but political realities in Dakar suggest that any future cooperation will have to be on Senegal’s terms.
President Faye, elected on a wave of nationalist sentiment, is under pressure from his supporters to assert Senegal’s independence in military matters. His administration has hinted at diversifying security partnerships, possibly turning to alternative allies such as Turkey, China, or Russia for defence assistance.
As negotiations unfold, the fate of French military bases in Senegal remains uncertain. Whether the two nations will find a compromise or opt for a clean break, one thing is clear: the era of unquestioned French military presence in West Africa is rapidly coming to an end.
