France Transfers Port-Bouët Military Base to Ivory Coast

France has officially handed over its Port-Bouët military base to the Ivory Coast, marking a significant shift in their military cooperation.

On Thursday, Ivory Coast officially assumed control of Port-Bouët, the final French military base remaining in the country.

In an official ceremony, Paris transferred control of the camp to the Ivorian army, which featured a changing of the guard symbolizing the shift in security responsibilities.

France has maintained a presence in Ivory Coast for decades; however, the handover occurs as most of its military forces withdraw from countries throughout West Africa.

French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that approximately 80 French servicemen will remain in the country to provide advice and training to the Ivorian military.

He stated, “France is transforming its presence; it is not disappearing.”

Approximately 1,000 French soldiers were stationed in Port-Bouët to assist in combating jihadists who frequently carry out attacks throughout the broader region.

The withdrawal will be implemented gradually throughout 2025, although approximately 80 French soldiers are anticipated to stay for training and support missions.

At the ceremony, new military cooperation agreements were signed between the two countries, with both parties emphasizing that their relations continue to be strong.

“This initiative signifies the beginning of a new era in friendship and strategic cooperation between our two nations,” stated Ivorian Defence Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara.

He announced that the base would be renamed in honor of the Ivorian army’s first Chief of Staff, the late General Thomas d’Aquin Ouattara.

Ivory Coast’s announcement mirrors those of other leaders in West Africa, who have requested the departure of France’s military presence.

Analysts suggest that the calls for their departure could be viewed as part of a wider structural shift in how the region interacts with Paris.

In recent years, French troops have been expelled from several West African countries, including Niger, Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Chad—a nation previously regarded as France’s most stable and loyal partner in Africa.

The French government is working to restore its declining political and military influence on the continent by developing a new military strategy.