The French armed forces have officially completed the handover of the Faya military base to Chad’s National Army, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing process of France’s military withdrawal from the Sahel region. This handover is the first of several planned transfers of military facilities as part of a broader strategy to reduce French military involvement in the region while enhancing Chad’s capacity to manage its security.
On December 26, 2024, the Chadian Ministry of Armed Forces, Veterans, and Victims of War confirmed that the base, previously managed by French troops, is now under full control of the Chadian army. The handover follows the earlier departure of French fighter jets and combat troops from the base, which had been stationed there as part of France’s counterterrorism operations in the region.
The French withdrawal from the Faya base is a symbolic and practical step in the ongoing transition of security responsibilities to Chad’s military forces. The French convoy, comprising 54 vehicles, left the base for the capital, N’Djamena, marking the physical departure of the French contingent. Additionally, a cargo plane carrying 80 tonnes of supplies departed from N’Djamena en route to France, underscoring the logistical aspect of this major military transition.
The handover is a significant milestone, not only in terms of security but also in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Chad and France. While the French forces are completing their withdrawal, both nations continue to emphasize the importance of cooperation. The Chadian government and the French Ministry of Armed Forces have expressed a shared commitment to ensuring that the transition is handled smoothly, with both sides working to ensure that the sovereignty of Chad is respected throughout the process.
In recent years, the presence of French troops in the Sahel region has been increasingly scrutinized, especially after the political and security landscape in the region shifted. The decision to gradually reduce France’s military presence and hand over key bases such as Faya is a reflection of France’s evolving strategy in the region, which aims to support local forces and minimize direct military involvement. France has long been involved in counterterrorism operations in the Sahel under Operation Barkhane, but following growing concerns and political pressure from local governments and populations, the French military is pivoting towards providing more indirect support.
This shift also reflects Chad’s growing role in regional security. The Chadian armed forces, which have historically been a key player in counterterrorism efforts across the Sahel, are now expected to take over full security responsibility in areas previously patrolled by French troops. The successful handover of Faya base is a testament to Chad’s military readiness and its ability to secure the region autonomously.
The handover is also part of a broader trend of military transitions across the Sahel, with several countries in the region looking to take on greater security responsibilities. While the situation remains fluid, and the challenges of combating terrorism and instability in the region continue, the handover of the Faya base is seen as a step forward in Chad’s journey towards greater self-reliance in managing its security.
Both France and Chad have expressed their intention to continue working together in the future, particularly in areas such as counterterrorism cooperation and regional peacekeeping efforts. Despite the French withdrawal, the strategic partnership between the two countries remains strong, as both sides acknowledge the importance of collaboration to maintain stability in the Sahel.
As French forces complete the handover of military bases, the process is expected to continue with further base closures and transfers. The handover of Faya is just the beginning of a wider strategic realignment in the region, with both Chad and France committed to ensuring that the transition does not lead to a security vacuum. The successful completion of the Faya handover highlights the readiness of the Chadian military to take on more responsibility in securing the country and the region.
