On the eve of his tour of Central Africa, the French President announced on Monday in a speech at the Elysée Palace, the military and diplomatic strategy of France in Africa.
He said that France plans a “visible reduction” of French military forces in Africa, justifying that the military base as it exists today does not fit the French military model.
Macron said in his statement that the French military presence in Africa will be ensured in collaboration with African partners, under the desired conditions.
The French presence in Africa will be concentrated in bases, schools, and academies that will be co-managed with African personnel.
These planned changes, including the reduction of French military personnel and the increase in the presence of African personnel in the bases, are the result of discussions held in recent weeks with his African counterparts, said the French president.
During the same speech, Macron called for a redefinition of relations with the African continent in the military, diplomatic, economic, and cultural fields.