France ends 65-year-old military presence in Chad

Presidential inauguration ceremony of Chad's junta leader Deby, in N'djamena

FILE PHOTO: Chad's newly elected President and junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby looks on during his inauguration ceremony in N'djamena, Chad May 23, 2024. REUTERS/Israel Matene/File Photo

Source: REUTERS

France has officially withdrawn its troops from Chad, ending 65 years of military presence in the country.

The last French base, Sergent Adji Kossei, was handed over to Chadian authorities on January 30, 2025.

Chad’s government decided to end military cooperation with France last year, saying the arrangement was no longer useful. President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno stated that Chad needed to take full control of its security, The Pinnacle Gazzette.

France had around 1,000 troops in Chad, helping fight armed groups in the region. But in recent years, France has also been forced to leave other African countries, including Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, as governments there sought new security partners.

Many Chadians supported the withdrawal, with some celebrating in the streets and calling for greater independence from France. Critics of France’s military presence say it was a form of modern colonial influence.

Despite pulling out its troops, France says it will continue working with Chad in other areas, including trade and culture.

Wonder Hagan [email protected]