France officially withdraws its troops from Senegal

The event was attended by the Chief of the General Staff of the Senegalese Armed Forces
Photo: Internet

Published at: 18/07/2025 11:11 AM

Last Thursday, after 65 years, France's permanent military presence in Senegal officially concluded with a solemn ceremony at the Geille camp in Ouakam, Dakar (capital).

The event was attended by the Chief of the General Staff of the Senegalese Armed Forces, General Mbaye Cissé, together with senior military, diplomatic and traditional authorities from both countries.

Cissé highlighted the result of “several months of fraternal discussions”, underlining Senegal's willingness to build a “renewed partnership” with France. This new cooperation framework will focus on instruction, training and training, with the possibility of expanding to strategic activities according to the needs of the Senegalese forces.

General Pascal Ianni, commander of the French Africa Command, described the moment as historic: “We are meeting today to commemorate the transfer to the Senegalese armed forces of Camp Geille, one of the strongest symbols of military collaboration between France and Senegal.”

The withdrawal was carried out gradually, following a negotiated schedule. By the end of March 2025, sites such as Camp Maréchal and Camp Saint-Exupéry had already been returned, while the Contra-Amiral Protet barracks and the Rufisque Joint Communications Center came under Senegalese control on July 1.


Mazo News Team

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