Ivory Coast Reclaims French Military Base in Abidjan

Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara has announced the handover of the French military base in Abidjan to Ivory Coast in January 2025. This decision, part of the gradual withdrawal of French forces from Africa, involves the 43rd Marine Infantry Battalion (BIMA) camp in Port-Bouët. Renamed after General Thomas d’Aquin Ouattara, the first Chief of Staff of the Ivorian Army, the base symbolizes the growing strength of the country’s national armed forces.

This transition reflects France’s reconfiguration of its military presence following its forced exit from several Sahelian countries. Nevertheless, Ivory Coast remains a strategic partner for Paris, with a shared commitment to countering jihadism. Additionally, President Ouattara assured that the October 2025 presidential election would take place in a transparent and peaceful environment.

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