The relationship between France and its former African colonies has long been fraught with historical complexities, but recent developments have pushed this dynamic into uncharted territory. On January 6, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron ignited intense backlash across Africa with remarks that many perceived as dismissive and condescending. Macron claimed that France had safeguarded African nations in the Sahel region from jihadist threats and expressed frustration over what he described as “ingratitude” for decades of French military intervention. These comments have since backfired, sparking widespread outrage and amplifying long-simmering tensions over France’s influence in the region.
Chad, historically a key ally in France’s military strategy in the Sahel, has taken the lead in challenging this status quo. Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby denounced Macron’s comments as an affront to African dignity and sovereignty, publicly declaring, “Africa cannot be lectured on gratitude. Our contributions to global history, including to France, are indisputable.” Within days, his government issued a formal demand for the withdrawal of French troops stationed in Chad by the end of January 2025.
This bold move reflects a broader shift across Africa, where anti-French sentiment has been steadily growing. Protests erupting in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, featured chants of “Africa for Africans!” as citizens called for an end to what many view as a neocolonial relationship. A 32-year-old protestor named Hassan Dibunge summarized the sentiment: “This is not just about troops; it’s about reshaping our future. We must reclaim our dignity, reorganize our militaries, and ensure our resources benefit our people, not foreign powers.”
France’s military involvement in the Sahel dates back to 2012, when its troops launched operations in Mali to combat militant Islamist groups. Over time, French forces expanded their presence across the region, including in Chad, under the justification of countering jihadist threats linked to ISIS and other extremist groups. Initially, these interventions were celebrated as liberatory efforts. However, public perception shifted as evidence mounted that France’s presence frequently came with economic and political strings attached. In resource-rich nations like Chad, Mali, and Niger, many citizens and analysts alike accuse France of exploiting local resources while supporting regimes that prioritize alignment with Paris over domestic needs.
Chad’s demand to expel French forces responds directly to these grievances. Political researcher Caman Bedaou Oumar contextualized the broader frustration, stating, “France’s involvement in Africa has never come without strings attached.” Chad’s Prime Minister Allamaye Halina further underscored this historical imbalance, reminding the nation, “Let us not forget—we bled for France in World War II, but today, we are repaid with exploitation and disrespect.”
Across the continent, leaders are increasingly voicing similar frustrations. Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko recently rebuked France’s narrative of benevolence, declaring, “If sovereignty is truly the goal, then African nations alone must define and secure their national interests, not external forces.” These statements reflect a growing consensus among African leaders to chart a path that prioritizes self-determination.
Chad’s decisive demand for French troop withdrawals may mark the beginning of a larger movement as neighboring countries reconsider their ties to France. Already, nations like Senegal and Ivory Coast are joining the chorus of criticism, signaling a potential shift in Africa-France relations. France has begun complying with Chad’s demands, relinquishing control of its base in Faya-Largeau and accelerating the withdrawal of its remaining 1,000 troops stationed in the country.
Yet, this is more than a political standoff between France and Chad—it represents Africa’s larger quest for sovereignty and equity in its global partnerships. Critics see Macron’s comments not only as tactless but also as emblematic of a broader reluctance by Western powers to accept Africa’s rising self-determination. For many African nations, the goal is clear: to replace long-standing external dependencies with self-reliance and dignity.
The fallout from Macron’s remarks could prove to be a turning point in how Africa engages with former colonial powers. Chad’s demand, coupled with widespread public support, illustrates a region increasingly willing to reject exploitative relationships in favor of asserting its own agency. As protester Hassan Dibunge aptly stated, “This is more than politics—it’s about reclaiming who we are.”
Whether Chad’s bold stance will inspire a domino effect across the continent remains to be seen. However, one thing is indisputable: Africa is signaling that it is no longer content with being a subordinate player in international relations. As this chapter continues to unfold, the world will witness a recalibration of power dynamics, not just between Chad and France, but across an entire continent determined to redefine its future.
