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French president suggests earlier dialogue with African partners could have changed defence strategy.
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Emmanuel Macron said France should have reconsidered its military presence in Sahel countries sooner, speaking at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi.
In an interview with FRANCE 24, RFI and TV5Monde, the French president indicated that earlier engagement with regional leaders might have prompted different policy decisions. His remarks reflect shifting French strategy in West and Central Africa, where Paris has faced growing anti-French sentiment and security challenges.
France has reduced its military footprint across the Sahel in recent years following coups and changing political dynamics. Macron's comments suggest further strategic reassessment of France's role in the region.
Macron acknowledges France should have withdrawn its military presence from the Sahel sooner, saying earlier dialogue with African leaders might have changed strategy. France has already reduced its footprint in the region amid coups and anti-French sentiment.
France's military retreat from West Africa reshapes European security strategy on the continent and could affect defence contracts, aid flows, and stability in regions where French companies operate. For businesses and investors with interests in Sahel countries, this signals accelerating shifts in geopolitical influence that could alter market conditions and partnership opportunities.