Military intelligence training in West Africa: strengthened cooperation between France and Senegal
While military relations between France and Senegal are transforming, with the gradual withdrawal of French troops from the country, a new form of cooperation is emerging. This concerns the co-management of military training, particularly in the field of intelligence. RFI was able to attend an intelligence training session, organized jointly by French and Senegalese officers, within the military base of French elements in Senegal in Dakar.
The objective of this training is to enable officers from different countries in the region, such as Benin, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Guinea-Conakry, to develop their skills in intelligence collection and management. unexpected situations. For some of them, this is a new experience, since they find themselves in an international environment, in collaboration with soldiers from other West African countries.
This change in military cooperation is underlined by the presence of a Senegalese army officer, who co-organizes the training alongside the French. This new approach is welcomed by Lieutenant-Colonel Louis, training coordinator, who believes that the nuances specific to military work in West Africa require particular sensitivity. The Senegalese presence allows for better fluidity in exchanges, facilitating communication and cooperation between officers.
This development is part of France’s desire to be increasingly involved alongside its African partners, by promoting closer collaboration with local forces. Colonel Eric Talleu, chief of staff of the French elements in Senegal, affirms that this transformation is the future of military cooperation between the two countries. The strengthened partnership between France and Senegal is also materialized by the presence of the French and Senegalese flags in the training premises, a symbol of this new dynamic of co-management and cooperation.
Parallel to this development, the gradual withdrawal of French troops from Senegal is planned, with a reduction in their numbers from 500 to around 260 by the summer of 2024. However, French instructors will remain on site to ensure the continuation of the training and the transmission of knowledge. This reduction in the French presence is part of a desire to strengthen the autonomy of local forces and to promote balanced cooperation between the different armies in the region.
In conclusion, military intelligence training in West Africa illustrates the new approach to cooperation between France and Senegal in the field of defense.. The co-management of training and the gradual reduction of the French presence demonstrate the desire to strengthen the autonomy of local forces and to promote balanced cooperation between the countries of the region. This development will allow a more fluid and efficient exchange of knowledge and experience, thus strengthening the operational capacity of African armies.