Senegal Moves Toward Full Sovereignty as France Hands Over Bases
France has begun transferring military bases in Senegal to local authorities, marking the end of a long-standing force in West African countries for decades. The withdrawal occurred after similar moves in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad and the Ivory Coast. It was initiated by the new government in Senegal and led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, part of an effort to reduce France’s military influence. Pan-African leader Faye, who is in power on the agenda of change and national self-sufficiency, is seen as a step toward this goal. A joint committee between France and Senegal is monitoring the transition, with local military personnel facing work losses by July 1. The withdrawal reflects the claims of greater autonomy by the former French colonies and reflects changing regional dynamics.
source: France 24
