France has announced plans to overhaul its political and security strategy in Africa by 2026, as part of its National Strategic Vision 2030 published by the General Secretariat for Defense and National Security (SGDSN).
The plan includes reassessing the terms of partnerships with African countries, with increased emphasis on civilian dimensions such as economy, culture, and historical memory, alongside stronger European and multilateral security initiatives.
According to the document, restructuring France’s military presence on the continent aims to establish “more flexible partnerships” that reflect the needs and aspirations of African nations.
Paris has also accused Russia of threatening its national security through its war in Ukraine and strategic alliances with Iran and China. It stated that Moscow “exploits instability in Africa to advance its own interests or undermine those of France and Europe.”
France has recently come under criticism following espionage scandals in Niger and Burkina Faso, prompting it to design a new framework for re-engagement in the Sahel region.
In this context, Paris has targeted the African Initiative media outlet, accusing it of promoting Russian propaganda—an accusation firmly denied by the agency, which insists on its editorial independence.
This strategic shift comes ahead of the upcoming Africa-France Summit scheduled for early 2026 in Nairobi, where bilateral relations are expected to be redefined amid intensifying global competition for influence on the continent.
Source: African Initiative
