Senegal’s President Bassirou Dioumaye Faye announced on Tuesday that all foreign military forces would leave the country by 2025, marking the first time a specific timeline has been set for the closure of foreign military bases.
In a New Year’s address, Faye revealed that he had instructed the armed forces minister to draft a new defense and security cooperation strategy, emphasizing Senegal’s sovereignty. This announcement follows his November statement requiring France to close its military bases in Senegal, a former French colony.
“From 2025, all foreign military presences in Senegal will end,” said Faye, who was elected in March and assumed office in April. He highlighted that Senegal’s partnerships with other nations would evolve into strategic alliances under a framework of diverse and balanced cooperation.
Faye, elected on a platform of sovereignty and reducing reliance on foreign nations, reiterated his commitment to ending the military presence of France and other nations, describing it as incompatible with Senegal’s independence.
“Senegal is a sovereign country, and sovereignty does not align with the presence of foreign military bases,” he stated, referencing the 64 years since Senegal gained independence from France.
Despite the planned withdrawal, Faye emphasized that the move does not signify a break with France. “France remains an important partner for Senegal in terms of investment, the presence of French companies, and the contributions of French citizens living in Senegal,” he said.
The decision aligns with a growing trend in West Africa, where countries are reassessing their relationships with former colonial powers and asserting greater autonomy in defense and governance.