Senegal Reclaims Military Bases from France, Signals Bold Shift Toward Sovereignty in West Africa

In a historic move underscoring a growing wave of independence and redefined diplomacy in West Africa, Senegal has officially regained control of two strategic military bases in Dakar from France, marking a decisive step in its pursuit of full national sovereignty.
The development comes on the heels of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s call for the withdrawal of all foreign troops from Senegalese soil, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to charting a self-reliant future.
“Sovereignty does not allow for the presence of foreign military bases,” President Faye declared, drawing a clear line between national independence and foreign military influence.
What makes Senegal’s stance particularly significant is its democratic context. Unlike the troop expulsions witnessed in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which were orchestrated by military juntas, Senegal’s transition is being driven by a democratically elected government—a signal of a deeper, more calculated reevaluation of foreign military presence in the region.
The decision has already begun to echo across West Africa, with countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana reportedly reexamining their own military alliances and defense arrangements with Western powers.
Analysts suggest this signals the beginning of a broader post-colonial reckoning, as African nations seek greater control over their security policies and foreign partnerships.