Macron’s Controversial Remarks
French President Emmanuel Macron’s comments on African nations being “ungrateful” for France’s role in combating jihadist insurgencies have drawn sharp criticism from Senegal and Chad.
Speaking at an annual ambassadors’ conference in Paris, Macron claimed Sahelian nations had “forgotten” to thank France for its military interventions, asserting that no Sahelian nation would maintain sovereignty without France’s support.
Chad Labels Macron’s Words as Contemptuous
Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, expressed deep concern over Macron’s remarks, describing them as reflective of contempt towards Africa. Speaking on national television, Koulamallah urged French leaders to respect African people and recognize their sacrifices. 
Koulamallah emphasized the role of African soldiers in France’s history, particularly during World War II, stating, “Had African soldiers, sometimes forcibly mobilized, mistreated, and ultimately betrayed, not been deployed during the Second World War to defend France, it might still be German today.”
Senegal Questions France’s Legitimacy in Africa
Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, criticized France’s historical role in destabilizing African nations, citing Libya as an example with far-reaching consequences for regional security.
He dismissed Macron’s assertion that Senegal negotiated its military base closures with France, clarifying that the decision stemmed from Senegal’s “sole will as a free, independent, and sovereign country.”
Sonko echoed Koulamallah’s sentiments regarding African soldiers’ contributions to France’s liberation during global conflicts.
Declining French Influence in Africa
The sharp responses from Senegal and Chad underline the broader decline in France’s influence across West Africa. Several nations, including Chad, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, have recently ended security agreements with France.
Meanwhile, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso expelled French troops following military coups and moved closer to Russia for strategic partnerships.
Chad’s decision to end its defense agreement with France in November 2024 was framed as a move to assert full sovereignty and realign partnerships based on national priorities. The Chadian foreign minister also pointed out that France’s contributions in the country served its “own strategic interests.”
Neo-Colonialism and Africa’s Sovereignty
Macron’s remarks have reignited discussions around neo-colonialism and exploitative ties between France and its former colonies.
Critics argue that France’s involvement in Africa often prioritizes its geopolitical and economic interests over genuine support for the continent’s sovereignty and stability.
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