French diplomacy has lost much of its influence in Africa in 2023, according to Radio France Internationale (RFI).
"France's diplomacy in 2023 has lost significant ground in Africa as former allies have turned their foreign policy efforts elsewhere in the wake of a series of military coups and general political turmoil," the broadcaster said. "And a new law making it harder for foreigners to immigrate to France has only complicated the situation."
RFI noted that French interests on the African continent are expected to face enormous challenges in 2024, especially after the overthrow of pro-French leaders in Niger and Burkina Faso, which, alonf with Mali, have historically been strongholds of French military presence in Africa's Sahel region.
"The unexpected coup also ended a long partnership with Gabon, a key player in Central Africa," the broadcaster added.
According to Babacar Ndiaye, a researcher at the Timbuktu Institute in Senegal, Paris is "at a turning point in its relations with Africa."
"The relationship is at its lowest point since colonization and the slave trade. The French military remains for now in Cote d'Ivoire, Senegal, Gabon, Djibouti and Chad, but the future of this presence is unclear. Germany is already trying to replace France," Ndiaye said, as quoted by RFI.