By: Sarah Baafi
Ivory Coast has officially taken control of the Port-Bouët military base, marking the end of France’s military presence in the country after decades.
The handover occurred on February 20, 2025, in a ceremony attended by French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Ivorian Defense Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara.
This transfer of security responsibilities was symbolized by a changing of the guard, with the base now set to be renamed in honor of General Thomas d’Aquin Ouattara, the Ivorian army’s first Chief of Staff.
The handover reflects a broader trend as France withdraws its military forces from various West African nations amid rising anti-French sentiment and requests for troop departures.
French troops have been expelled from countries like Niger and Burkina Faso in recent years, signaling a significant shift in regional dynamics.
Despite this withdrawal, approximately 80 French servicemen will remain in Ivory Coast to provide training and advisory support to the Ivorian military.
Minister Lecornu emphasized that France is not abandoning its commitments but rather transforming its military presence in response to changing global security needs.
Similarly, Minister Ouattara highlighted the importance of evolving their defense relationship to address current threats effectively. Both ministers expressed optimism about maintaining strong military cooperation between the two nations moving forward.
This transition at Port-Bouët is part of France’s strategic reorganization in Africa, as it seeks to adapt to new geopolitical realities while maintaining partnerships with former colonies. The ceremony not only marked a historic moment for Ivory Coast but also underscored the ongoing complexities surrounding France’s military engagements on the continent.
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