The governments of Senegal and Chad have voiced strong opposition to recent remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron, who suggested that African countries in the Sahel region have been ungrateful for France’s military interventions against jihadist insurgencies. Macron’s comments have sparked widespread criticism across the continent, further straining France’s relationship with its former colonies.
During a speech on Monday, Macron lamented what he described as a lack of acknowledgment for France’s efforts in combating militant groups in the Sahel region. He stated that Sahelian nations had “forgotten” to thank France for its intervention, which he claimed prevented these countries from losing their sovereignty to jihadist control. According to Macron, France’s involvement was pivotal in stopping extremist groups from overrunning the region, ensuring the survival of Sahelian states as independent nations.
These remarks come as France continues to withdraw its military forces from several West African nations, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The withdrawal follows increasing anti-French sentiment and a growing demand for alternative international partnerships in the region. France’s military presence in the Sahel, which began under Operation Serval in 2013 and later expanded into Operation Barkhane, has faced criticism for failing to fully eliminate jihadist threats and for being perceived as neocolonial interference.
In response to Macron’s comments, Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah issued a sharp rebuke, describing the French president’s words as revealing “contempt for Africa.” Koulamallah emphasized that African nations are fully capable of safeguarding their sovereignty and determining their own paths without paternalistic interventions. He added that such remarks only serve to deepen resentment and undermine mutual respect between Africa and France.
Similarly, Senegal has expressed dissatisfaction with Macron’s tone, with officials calling for more balanced and respectful dialogue between African nations and their Western counterparts. Senegalese political analysts have pointed out that Macron’s statement reflects a broader pattern of dismissive attitudes toward Africa’s agency in addressing its security challenges.
Macron’s comments have reignited debates about the legacy of French colonialism in Africa and the role of international powers in the continent’s affairs. Many African leaders and citizens view France’s interventions as driven by self-interest rather than altruism, particularly in regions rich in natural resources. The criticism underscores a growing shift in Africa, where nations are increasingly seeking partnerships beyond their historical colonial ties, particularly with countries like China, Russia, and Turkey.
The diplomatic fallout from Macron’s remarks highlights the fragile state of France’s influence in Africa, as countries in the Sahel continue to explore new avenues for military and economic collaboration. The situation also raises broader questions about the future of Africa-Europe relations and the importance of fostering partnerships based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Senegal and Chad Criticize Macron’s Remarks on African Sovereignty and France’s Role in the Sahel

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