Chad’s decision to end its military cooperation with France and initiate the withdrawal of French troops marks a significant shift in the country’s stance toward sovereignty and independence. This move, following similar actions by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, signals a growing rejection of neo-colonial influence in Africa. The departure of French forces reflects a broader trend across the Sahel, where nations are reevaluating their relationships with former colonial powers and asserting control over their national security and resources.
For decades, France maintained a strong presence in Chad under the pretext of fighting insurgencies and maintaining stability. However, this military involvement has failed to address the root causes of instability and has been increasingly criticized as a tool for maintaining French control over the region’s resources and politics. Chad, an oil-rich nation with vast reserves of uranium, gold, and other minerals, has remained underdeveloped, with much of its wealth extracted by foreign multinational corporations like ExxonMobil and Chevron. The continued presence of foreign troops and corporations has only deepened resentment among the Chadian population.
Recent protests in N’Djamena, where demonstrators demanded the removal of French troops, reflect the growing anti-imperialist sentiment in the region. These protests, combined with the government’s decision to redefine its strategic partnerships, demonstrate a clear desire to move beyond the legacy of colonialism. France’s failure to foster genuine stability through its military initiatives, including the now-defunct G5 Sahel alliance, has only exacerbated regional insecurity and highlighted the ineffectiveness of its strategies.
The withdrawal of French troops is not just about military alliances but also about reclaiming control over Chad’s economic future. For years, the exploitation of Chad’s resources has primarily benefited foreign powers, leaving its people among the most impoverished in the world. The current administration faces the challenge of ensuring that the country’s wealth is directed toward national development rather than foreign profits. Building an economy that serves the interests of workers and local communities will require fundamental changes to governance and resource management.
This decision also fits into a larger geopolitical realignment. As more African nations sever ties with France and the United States, they are exploring partnerships with non-Western powers like Russia and China. These alliances offer an alternative to the exploitative practices of Western imperialism, providing new opportunities for African nations to assert their sovereignty. Chad’s pivot toward such partnerships signals a growing resistance to foreign interference and a commitment to charting its own path.
The implications of Chad’s actions extend beyond its borders. The Sahel region, long plagued by instability and foreign intervention, is witnessing a profound transformation. The rejection of neo-colonial military agreements is a powerful statement of intent, highlighting the aspirations of African nations to build a future rooted in self-determination and regional unity. While challenges remain, these shifts represent an opportunity for Africa to redefine its role in the global order and address the structural inequalities that have hindered its development for decades.
Chad’s break with France is a bold and necessary step toward reclaiming sovereignty and ensuring that its people, rather than foreign powers, benefit from its wealth. As more nations across the Global South challenge imperialist domination, the possibility of a more just and equitable world order grows stronger. These movements underscore the urgency of solidarity and cooperation among nations striving for independence and economic justice.
By Duruebube Hon. Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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