By Abigail Philip David
France officially returned its sole military base in Ivory Coast to local authorities on Thursday, marking the end of a decades-long French presence at the site.
The handover was formalized in a signing ceremony attended by the French and Ivorian defense ministers, shortly after the Ivorian flag was raised at the base’s parade ground.
“This marks a new era in the friendship and strategic collaboration between our two countries,” said Ivorian Defence Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara. Meanwhile, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu described the moment as “historic,” emphasizing that while France’s presence is evolving, it is not disappearing entirely.
The ceremony featured a change of guard to signify the transfer of security responsibilities to the Ivorian army. The 230-hectare (570-acre) Port-Bouet military camp, located near Abidjan, has played a crucial role in Ivory Coast’s stability since its establishment in 1978, particularly during periods of political unrest in the 2000s.
The site, previously home to France’s 43rd BIMA marine infantry battalion, will now be renamed Camp Thomas d’Aquin Ouattara, in honor of the Ivorian army’s first chief of staff. His portrait will be displayed on the command post’s facade.
France’s decision to adjust its military strategy in Africa follows its withdrawal from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, where military-led governments have adopted anti-French policies.
Approximately 1,000 French troops were stationed at Port-Bouet, contributing to counterterrorism efforts in the wider region. The withdrawal will be phased throughout 2025, but around 100 French soldiers will remain to provide training and support.
French-Ivorian military ties date back to a 1961 agreement signed after Ivory Coast’s independence, while France’s presence in the country extends to the colonial era.
