Paris: The disruption of France’s Africa policy is now in full swing, as more African countries, particularly in the Sahel region, reject the Francafrique policy—France’s complex and controversial network of ties with its former colonies. This policy, often described as neocolonial, is under massive political and popular pressure, openly challenging France’s military, diplomatic, and economic footprint in Africa.
According to Deutsche Welle, Chinese companies now hold a 25% market share in French-speaking Africa, while France’s share has fallen to between 6% and 7%. This shift underscores the changing dynamics that French businesses face as they contend with new competitors and realities. French multinational Orano faced recent setbacks, suspending production at its Arlit uranium mine in Niger due to financial difficulties and losing its mining license for the Imouraren uranium deposit after the military government revoked it.
Beyond the uranium sector, France’s influence model is destabilizing, affecting infrastructure, telecommunication, energy, and public works sectors. In response, French President Emmanuel Macron introduced a strategy titled “Our Future The Africa-France Partnership” in February 2023, advocating for new forms of partnerships focused on economic and trade relations instead of security issues. This strategy aims for a transition from aid to solidarity investments and partnerships, promoting a symbiotic relationship beneficial to all parties involved.
As Africa becomes less of France’s exclusive business domain, with countries like Turkey, Russia, China, and Germany advancing their positions, French companies must adjust their business policies to survive in an increasingly competitive environment. Energy giant TotalEnergies, for example, is seeking new footing in English- and Portuguese-speaking countries, including Kenya, South Africa, Namibia, and Angola, though competition remains fierce.
The era of the Francafrique special relationship is ending, and French multinationals are attempting to transform by collaborating more with local partners or moving operations within Africa. Regardless of their strategies, legitimacy remains crucial for these companies, requiring them to co-construct locally and share benefits rather than operating independently.