France has officially handed over its military base in Abeché to the Chadian military, marking a key step in its withdrawal process. The move signifies the end of decades of French military presence in the northern city, a transition hailed as a sign of Chad’s growing autonomy in managing security and humanitarian challenges.
Colonel Boris Pomirol, Commander of French Forces in the Sahel, praised the partnership between the two nations. “These ties are a living testament to the friendship that unites our two peoples. Despite our departure, this friendship will endure,” he said during the ceremony. Pomirol emphasized that the return of the base symbolizes Chad’s strengthened capabilities to address regional challenges.
Chad’s Minister of Defence, Issaka Maroua Djamous, welcomed the transition but reaffirmed the firm deadline for the complete withdrawal of French troops by January 31, 2025. “This is a non-negotiable date,” Djamous stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to asserting sovereignty over its military operations.
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The handover comes amid mixed sentiments in Abeché. The city, historically opposed to the French military presence, has witnessed frequent protests demanding the base’s departure. These demonstrations were often suppressed by authorities, but the imminent withdrawal reflects a shift in the relationship between Chad and its former colonial ally.
As part of the withdrawal process, convoys of trucks carrying equipment and supplies were seen heading to N’Djamena earlier this week. Some of the cargo will transit through Cameroon before being shipped back to France.
France’s exit from Abeché indicates a broader reevaluation of its military strategy in Africa. Yet, as French officials emphasized, this is not a farewell but a transition to a new phase of cooperation.
