France Faces Growing Backlash Over Macron’s Remarks on African Gratitude 

French President Emmanuel Macron is facing sharp criticism from African leaders after remarks suggesting African nations have shown insufficient gratitude for France’s military interventions. Speaking at a foreign policy conference on Monday, Macron defended France’s 2013 deployment to combat Islamist insurgents, claiming, “I think that they [African leaders] forgot to thank us, but that’s okay, it’ll come with time. Ingratitude, and I know what I am talking about is a disease that cannot be transmitted to humans” He further stated that Sahel countries owe their sovereignty to French efforts.

The comment drew immediate backlash, with Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah denouncing the remarks as dismissive and disrespectful.

Senegal and Chad Push Back

Sonko called out Macron’s narrative, asserting France has played a destabilizing role in Africa. “France has neither the capacity nor the legitimacy to ensure Africa’s security and sovereignty,” Sonko said, pointing to Libya as an example of French interference with “disastrous consequences” for regional stability.

Chad’s Koulamallah expressed similar disapproval, labelling Macron’s statements as reflective of a “contemptuous attitude” toward Africa. He urged French leaders to respect African sacrifices and sovereignty.

Both nations have recently redefined their relationships with France:

•Senegal: President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced the closure of French military bases in December, emphasizing Senegal’s “sole will as a free, independent, and sovereign country.”

•Chad: Last November, Chad ended its defence cooperation agreement with France and demanded the withdrawal of French troops by January.

A Growing Wave of Anti-French Sentiment

Macron’s remarks come amid a larger shift across Africa. Over 70% of former French colonies have expelled French military forces in recent years, signalling a widespread rejection of France’s presence.

•Recent Developments:

•Côte d’Ivoire ordered the exit of French troops last week.

•Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, now united in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have expelled French forces and reclaimed military bases.

•Mali has also taken steps to erase remnants of its colonial past, renaming public spaces in its capital, Bamako.

Macron, however, has dismissed claims of being ousted, framing the withdrawals as part of a strategic reorganization.

Tensions Extend Beyond France

Niger’s military leader, Brig. Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, has accused Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilize his nation. Tchiani alleged that France supports militant groups in the Lake Chad region, a claim Nigeria’s government swiftly denied. Information Minister Mohammed Idris called the accusations “false” and “baseless.”

Despite its historical ties to France, Nigeria maintains a distinct relationship as a key trade and security partner. This stands in contrast to neighbouring nations, which increasingly reject French influence.

Africa Reclaims Its Narrative

Macron’s comments have reignited debates about colonial legacies and sovereignty in Africa. As nations like Senegal, Chad, and Mali assert independence from French influence, a broader movement to redefine Africa’s relationships with global powers gains momentum.

The wave of anti-French sentiment highlights a significant shift in African geopolitics, emphasizing respect, sovereignty, and self-determination.