France to reduce its military contingent in 3 African countries

France will significantly reduce its military contingent in Gabon, Senegal and Cote d'Ivoire, this decision was made by the country’s President Emmanuel Macron in December, and the process has already begun, Report informs referring to the Monde newspaper.

It is noted that at most French bases in these countries, the process of reducing the number of military personnel has already begun, but it should accelerate this year.

According to the plans, the number of French troops in the capitals of Gabon, Senegal and Cote d'Ivoire could be reduced to about 100 in each of the three cities, while they would serve mainly in support roles.

According to the newspaper, until recently, 350 French troops were stationed at bases in Libreville and Dakar, the capitals of Gabon and Senegal, and 950 soldiers in the Ivory Coast capital, Abidjan.

As the newspaper was told in the office of the French president, it is planned that the number of French contingents in these countries will change from time to time depending on the “needs of partners” in a particular period of time.

At the same time, the newspaper notes that the number of French contingents in Djibouti and Chad (1,500 soldiers in each country) will not change.