'The Sahel remains strategically important to France,' says expert Shumba
Human-rights lawyer and Pan-African activist Gabriel Shumba says France will remain strategically engaged in the Sahel despite withdrawing troops from several countries, but must build partnerships rather than seek to restore its former influence.
Expert Shumba asserts France retains significant strategic interests in Africa's Sahel region, despite withdrawing troops from several countries. He cites intelligence gathering, counter-terrorism, rapid military deployment, protection of nationals and interests, trade routes and access to resources like Niger's uranium as key reasons.
Geographically, the Sahel connects West Africa with North Africa and the Gulf of Guinea, making its instability affect migration, terrorism, trade and European security. Shumba does not foresee France abandoning its strategic focus on the Sahel, but also believes France cannot reconstruct the former Françafrique order. The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has strengthened ties with Russia while asserting greater autonomy.
The economic community of West African states (ECOWAS) has imposed sanctions on the Sahel countries, potentially solidifying solidarity among them. Former African Union Permanent Representative to the U.S., Dr. Chihombori-Quao, criticizes France's ongoing influence, arguing that political independence did not erase the economic structures of former colonial powers.
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