Paris is reshaping its military footprint in Africa, pivoting towards new partnerships and a more reactive approach to security challenges on the continent.
Four years after the conclusion of Operation Barkhane, France is forging a new strategy that moves away from maintaining a permanent, exclusive military presence in West Africa. This shift comes as Paris seeks to address evolving security concerns and adapt to changing political landscapes. The development underscores a broader recalibration of French involvement in the region.
In a move signaling this change, French authorities are preparing to ratify a landmark defense agreement with Kenya in February. The pact, initially signed in November 2025, reflects a desire to establish a foothold in East Africa, specifically within the Anglophone sphere. Unlike previous large-scale base deployments, this partnership will focus on maritime security, intelligence sharing, and training initiatives.
According to Nathaniel Powell, an expert at Oxford Analytica, the alignment of interests is clear: “The Kenya has a need to strengthen its deployment to fight against piracy […], and France’s offer in terms of counter-terrorism […] is exceptionally well suited to the situation.”
France is streamlining its visible military presence, ending long-term expatriate deployments in countries like Senegal and Gabon, in pursuit of what officials describe as “regained freedom.” However, Paris has not abandoned direct intervention when deemed necessary. The French military conducted two sensitive operations in recent months: the exfiltration of former Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina in October 2025, and crucial support for Beninese President Patrice Talon during a coup attempt in December.
Benin is now viewed as a “laboratory” and a buffer state in relation to Niger, where strategic interests – particularly concerning uranium resources – remain prominent. This new model, combining a reduced presence with rapid military responsiveness, will be formally presented at the upcoming Africa-France summit scheduled for Nairobi in May.
As one French official summarized, regarding the end of traditional permanent bases: “It’s a big thorn removed, it’s more adapted to the context.”
