Faith Nyasuguta
France is moving to rebuild strained relations with Chad after President Emmanuel Macron invited Chadian leader Magati Deby to Paris, signalling a fresh diplomatic push as Paris works to regain influence in a region where its military and political presence has steadily declined.
The invitation was delivered by France’s ambassador to Chad during a meeting in the capital, and Deby accepted, according to Chad’s presidency. Although no date has been confirmed, the visit is expected to focus on redefining cooperation between the two countries after months of tension over security and defence ties.
Relations worsened late last year when Chad terminated its long-standing defence agreement with France, ending the formal framework that allowed French forces to operate from the country in counterterrorism missions across the Sahel. The decision followed earlier moves to scale back cooperation with Western security partners, fuelling speculation that N’Djamena was reassessing its alliances.
For decades, Chad had been one of France’s closest military allies in Central Africa, hosting French troops and serving as a key base for regional operations. Ending the agreement marked a major shift, reflecting growing calls for sovereignty and less reliance on foreign forces.
At the same time, Chad has explored new partnerships, including signing a memorandum of understanding with Belarus to strengthen military cooperation. However, Deby has stressed that his government does not intend to replace France with another power, saying Chad wants balanced relationships based on mutual respect.
French officials view Macron’s invitation as an effort to reset ties through dialogue and adapt cooperation to current realities. Talks are expected to address security collaboration, economic links and broader bilateral relations.
Chad’s repositioning mirrors a wider continental trend. Several African nations, including Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, have expelled French troops in recent years, while others have reduced defence arrangements, signalling waning tolerance for Paris’s traditional influence.
Beyond security, French businesses have also faced setbacks, with major banks and energy firms scaling back operations amid rising local competition and regulatory pressures.
Against this backdrop, the Paris visit is seen as a strategic attempt by France to re-engage Africa diplomatically rather than rely solely on military leverage. Still, analysts say the balance of power has shifted, with countries like Chad increasingly asserting independence and diversifying partnerships.
As Magati Deby prepares for talks in Paris, both sides appear keen to rebuild cooperation, but on new terms that reflect Africa’s changing political environment.
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