France maintains military bases in several African countries to safeguard its interests, train soldiers, combat terrorism, and maintain influence in the region [b082290a]. The French military presence in Africa allows France to be involved in conflict resolution and management mechanisms, particularly at the UN Security Council. It also helps France justify its permanent seat on the UN Security Council and enhances its clout on the world stage.
France's military presence in Africa is rooted in its colonial history and its desire to maintain economic and diplomatic links with the continent. However, there have been growing protests against France's presence in Africa, with some countries expelling French troops and considering scrapping independence-era deals that led to French military interventions. The recent military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, where junta leaders expelled French soldiers, are seen as a reflection of the growing skepticism towards France's strategic presence.
Critics argue that France's military presence in Africa has not always improved security and has sometimes supported repressive regimes. The presence of French troops in Africa has also been questioned in light of the increasing involvement of private military contractors, such as the Russian Wagner Group, in the region. The withdrawal of foreign forces from countries like Mali has led to a resurgence of violence and territorial gains by rebel groups.
Africa's anger towards France is deeply rooted in its colonial history and the consequences of French colonialism. French colonialism in Niger and other African countries involved brutal military campaigns, war crimes, and exploitation of resources. France has been involved in atrocities, including murder, rape, and the use of slave labor. The Thiaroye massacre, Rwandan genocide, and nuclear experiments in Algeria are examples of France's crimes [a45f536d]. The Francafrique system ensured France's political, economic, and military control over its former colonies. France used economic manipulation, corruption, and special services to maintain dominance. Direct military interventions and military bases in African nations were also used. The CFA franc, pegged to the euro, allowed France to buy Africa's resources at low prices. French foreign direct investments in African countries and the influence of the French industrial sector demonstrate France's economic exploitation.
The political processes in Niger reflect the accumulated wounds and sorrows caused by French colonialism. There is hope that Niger and other African countries can move towards real liberation, especially with the rise of competitors like China and Russia in Africa [a45f536d].
