Djibouti: Towards a new French military strategy in the Horn of Africa

After being expelled from the Sahel, the French army is turning to Djibouti, a choice that arouses both curiosity and skepticism. The French mega military machine is preparing to redeploy its troops to a terrain that, although little publicized, remains critical in the geopolitical context of the region. But what is motivating this new strategy, and above all, what is Djibouti's place in the great game of powers in Africa?

Djibouti: The new strategic base

Djibouti, this small country located at the tip of the Horn of Africa, could well become the new nerve center of French military operations. This reorientation is not without a whiff of nostalgia, recalling the glorious hours of the colonial era when France had a significant influence on the region. By choosing Djibouti as a base, the French army is banking on familiar terrain, where it will be able to redeploy its forces while closely monitoring the movements of the jihadist groups that are ravaging the Sahel.

A thorny relationship with the Sahel

The expulsion of the French army from the Sahel represents a bitter failure, both on the military and diplomatic levels. The local populations have become increasingly hostile to the French presence, going so far as to lead demonstrations against neocolonialism, a motion that is not to be taken lightly. Faced with this popular resistance, France is trying to start anew, but doubts persist: will the presence in Djibouti be perceived as genuine assistance to the stability of the region or as a new neocolonial deployment?

Future prospects: Between ambitions and realities

The French strategy also raises the question of resources and logistics. Djibouti, thanks to its strategic geographical position, opens doors to crucial trade routes and maritime routes. However, the French military presence should not be seen as a panacea for the troubles shaking Africa. The challenges of a solid cooperation integrating African forces must be at the heart of the discussions. Will France be able to adapt to this new paradigm in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel and beyond? One thing is certain: the new French military chapter in Djibouti promises to be turbulent and full of opportunities, but also of major challenges.