France has transferred control of its first military base in Chad, marking the initial step in its withdrawal from the country, both French and Chadian military officials confirmed on Thursday.
The base in Faya-Largeau, located in northern Chad, was handed over to the Chadian military. Officials announced plans to update the public on the progress of withdrawing French forces from two other bases in the eastern city of Abeche and the capital, N’Djamena.
French troops departed Faya-Largeau in vehicles bound for N’Djamena, approximately 780 kilometres (480 miles) to the south. While the exact number of troops involved was not disclosed, the French military stated that the withdrawal is proceeding as scheduled under previously agreed terms with Chad.
Last month, Chad abruptly ended military cooperation with France, prompting French forces to begin their departure. The withdrawal follows the exit of French warplanes and precedes Chad’s parliamentary and local elections scheduled for Sunday.
The French military, which had around 1,000 personnel stationed in Chad, also began transporting equipment. An Antonov 124 aircraft left the country on Thursday carrying 70 tonnes of cargo, with military vehicles set to be repatriated via the Cameroonian port of Douala by January.
Chad has been a strategic anchor for France’s military operations in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, where France has faced increasing opposition after a series of coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These nations have pivoted toward closer ties with Russia, and Chad has similarly explored stronger relations with Moscow in recent months, though talks have yet to yield significant agreements.
French forces have been stationed in Chad since its independence in 1960, providing crucial military support to the Chadian government on several occasions. This included aiding former leader Idriss Deby Itno in repelling rebel offensives in 2008 and 2019.
The country’s current leader, General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, ascended to power following his father’s death during clashes with rebels in 2021. His election in May 2024 concluded a three-year political transition period.
