Senegal’s President Bassirou Dioumaye Faye has announced that all foreign military forces will leave the country by 2025, underscoring a renewed push for national sovereignty. The declaration was made on Tuesday during his New Year’s address, marking the first time a definitive timeline has been set for the withdrawal of foreign troops.
“I have directed the minister for the armed forces to draft a new defence and security doctrine that will, among other outcomes, ensure the departure of all foreign military forces from Senegal by 2025” said Faye, who assumed office in April 2024.
This announcement follows a November decision to close French military bases in the country, ending decades of defence cooperation with Senegal’s former colonial ruler. Faye clarified that this decision aligns with his campaign pledge to enhance Senegal’s sovereignty and reduce dependency on foreign powers.
“Senegal is an independent and sovereign nation, and sovereignty is incompatible with the presence of military bases belonging to foreign countries” the president remarked, reflecting on Senegal’s 64 years of independence from France.
Despite this significant policy shift, Faye emphasized that the move does not signify a rupture with France. “France remains a key partner for Senegal, particularly in terms of investment, the presence of French companies, and the contributions of French citizens residing in Senegal” he said.
The president further highlighted that Senegal’s relationships with foreign nations will now be built on equal footing. “All of Senegal’s partners will be treated as strategic allies within the framework of open, diversified, and uninhibited cooperation” he added.
This policy signals a broader trend in West Africa, where nations are increasingly asserting their independence from foreign military influence, even while maintaining economic and diplomatic ties with their international allies.
