Abstract

The presence of French troops in Africa, particularly in Chad, has raised significant questions about their impact on security, stability, and socio-economic development in the region. This study aims to address the limited empirical evidence and concerns surrounding the accountability, transparency, and effectiveness of French military operations in Chad.

By investigating the activity of French troops in Chad, the study examines its effects on the country’s security, stability, and socio-economic development. Additionally, it explores the perceptions and experiences of Chadian civilians regarding the presence of foreign military forces in their country.

The research employs a quantitative research method with a cross-sectional research design. By analyzing the data collected, the study provides insights into the role of the French Army in Chad, the challenges affecting their activities, and potential measures to enhance their effectiveness.

Regarding the role and benefits of the French Army’s activities in Chad, the findings indicate varying opinions among the respondents. While a significant portion agreed on the provision of security assistance and support to the Chadian government, opinions were divided concerning the overall benefits to the Chadian people.

The analysis reveals several challenges affecting the activities of French troops in Chad. These challenges include the presence of armed insurgent groups and terrorist organizations, the vast and challenging terrain, limited resources, logistical constraints, and complex political and social dynamics.

Furthermore, the study identifies potential measures to enhance the activities of French troops in Chad. These measures include implementing effective intelligence gathering and sharing mechanisms, strengthening coordination and collaboration with international partners, investing in capacity building and training programs for Chadian security forces, and enhancing community engagement and civil-military cooperation.

The study concludes by offering recommendations to address the identified challenges and enhance the activities of French troops in Chad. These recommendations include strengthening collaboration, resource allocation, intelligence gathering, and capacity building.



In conclusion, this research sheds light on the activity of French troops in Chad and provides valuable insights into their role, challenges faced, and potential measures to improve their effectiveness. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics between foreign military presence, security, and development in the African context, particularly in Chad.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to The Study

The activity of French troops in Africa, specifically in Chad, has been a topic of concern among various stakeholders, including scholars, policymakers, and the general public. While some people view the presence of French troops in Africa as necessary for the stability and security of the region, others argue that it is a form of neo-colonialism.

This essay reviews the activity of French troops in Africa using a top-down approach, starting with a world perspective, followed by an African perspective, and ending with Chad’s perspective on the subject matter.

France has a long history of military intervention in Africa, dating back to the colonial era. The French military presence in Africa is not limited to Chad but extends to other countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The primary objective of French military intervention in Africa is to maintain security and stability in the region. France’s military presence in Africa is seen as necessary to counter the threat of terrorism and other forms of violence that could destabilize the region.

However, France’s military intervention in Africa has been criticized by some people as a form of neo-colonialism. Some scholars argue that France’s continued military presence in Africa is an attempt to maintain its influence in the region and protect its economic interests. This has led to tensions between France and some African countries, with some governments demanding the withdrawal of French troops from their territories.

From an African perspective, the presence of French troops in Chad is viewed as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, French military intervention has contributed to the stability of the region and helped to prevent the spread of violent extremism. On the other hand, some people view French military intervention as a violation of African sovereignty and a continuation of colonialism.

Some African countries have called for the establishment of an African-led military force to address security challenges on the continent. This has led to the creation of the African Union’s African Standby Force (ASF), which is designed to provide a rapid response to crises in Africa. However, the ASF has been slow to materialize, and many African countries still rely on external forces to address security challenges.

Chad is a country in central Africa that has experienced political instability and conflict in recent years. The country has been wracked by civil war, rebel uprisings, and political unrest. The presence of French troops in Chad has been viewed by some Chadians as a necessary measure to maintain security and stability in the country. However, others view it as a violation of Chadian sovereignty and a continuation of French neo-colonialism.

Chad has called for greater African ownership of security issues on the continent, arguing that external forces should play a supportive rather than a primary role. The Chadian government has also called for the strengthening of the ASF and the creation of an African-led peacekeeping force. However, the country continues to rely on French military assistance to address security challenges in the region.



In conclusion, the activity of French troops in Africa, specifically in Chad, is a complex issue that requires a general understanding of the various perspectives involved. While the presence of French troops in Africa has contributed to the stability of the region, it has also been criticized as a form of neo-colonialism.

African countries have called for greater African ownership of security issues on the continent, but many still rely on external forces to address security challenges. The situation in Chad highlights the need for African countries to take a more active role in addressing security challenges on the continent while acknowledging the importance of external assistance in some circumstances.

1.2 Statement of The Problem

Despite the presence of French troops in Africa, particularly in Chad, for many years, there is limited empirical evidence regarding their impact on security, stability, and socio-economic development in the region. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the accountability, transparency, and effectiveness of French military operations, which may have negative consequences for local populations.

Therefore, this study aims to investigate the activity of French troops in Chad and its effects on the country’s security, stability, and socio-economic development, as well as the perceptions and experiences of Chadian civilians regarding the presence of foreign military forces in their country

1.3 Research Question

1. What is the role of the French Army in Chad and how beneficial are its activities to Chadians? people
2. What are the challenges affecting the activities of French troops in Chad?
3. Are there measures that can enhance the activities of French troops in Chad?

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