How Macron managed to alienate Africa even further from France with one "ungrateful" slap “I think they forgot to say ‘thank you’“

France’s reputation in its former African colonies has been under strain for years, but a recent speech by President Emmanuel Macron has added more fuel to the already blazing flames of animosity. Speaking at the annual gathering of French ambassadors on January 6, Macron expressed frustration, stating that many African governments failed to acknowledge France's role in their sovereignty. "I think they forgot to say ‘thank you,’" were his exact words, which have since sparked widespread criticism, with analysts describing them as a strategic error and a continuation of past missteps in Macron's dealings with Africa.

A wave of sovereignty has emerged across Africa in recent years which saw the banishment of France's enormous influence on the continent, in particular it's military presence: Of the 10,000 soldiers present in Africa just five years ago, barely 4,000 remain today with this number expected to drop down to 2,000 in the coming months following recent announcements by Chad and Senegal. As an article by the Deutsche Welle points out, this did not stop Macron from pointing fingers at them: "I say this for all the African governments who've not had the courage in the face of public opinion to bear it that none of them would be in a sovereign country today if the French army had not been deployed in this region." 

The article highlights Macron’s history of controversial remarks during his visits to Africa. In 2017, he upset audiences in Burkina Faso by jokingly blaming then-President Roch Marc Kabore for electricity issues and mocking his sudden departure during the event. In 2023, Macron clashed with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi over comments about African elections, further straining ties. Nina Wilen, an analyst at the Egmont Royal Institute, noted that such remarks undermine efforts by French officials to shed the image of an "arrogant former colonial power."

Macron’s recent comments also overlooked Africa’s significant contributions to France’s historical power. Juste Codjo, a professor and former Benin military officer, emphasized that African soldiers fought for France in World Wars and colonial conflicts, and African resources have fueled France’s economy and influence. Codjo criticized Macron’s lack of gratitude, stating, "France would not have been where it is today without African contributions."

France’s diminishing influence in Africa is evident. As the Deutsche Welle recalls, many former colonies have ended longstanding partnerships with France, choosing other allies like Russia. In recent years, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have expelled French forces, favoring Russian military support. Countries like Senegal and Chad have also announced plans to end military cooperation with France, with some bases already closed. Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara declared his intention to reclaim control of military bases, urging citizens to take pride in their national army.

Macron’s waning domestic political power adds context to his remarks. Facing challenges at home, including diminished influence in parliament, foreign policy remains one of the few areas where Macron can assert authority. However, analysts suggest his controversial statements are unlikely to bolster his popularity.

France’s colonial legacy, including economic control through the CFA Franc and interference in post-independence governance, continues to fuel resentment in Africa. Instances such as flooding Guinea with counterfeit currency in 1960 to destabilize its economy exemplify these tensions.

As France withdraws from many African nations, Macron insists this is a strategic "reorganization," claiming France allowed African leaders to announce these changes first. However, leaders like Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno and analysts like Codjo suggest these moves were prompted by growing rejection of French influence. Macron’s recent remarks have deepened perceptions of France as out of touch, further alienating its former colonies.

By Nazrin Sadigova