Abstract:
This paper examines the historical, political, and economic dynamics underpinning France's relationship with its African colonies. Rooted in the legacy of colonialism, France-Africa relations have been characterized by a blend of centralized control over defense, foreign affairs, and economic policies, while granting limited internal self-governance to the colonies. The persistence of patrimonial ties between French and African elites further solidified this relationship, with a formal structure that included institutions like the Presidency, the Ministry of Cooperation, and the French Monetary Zone (CFA). Over time, however, France's African policy has undergone significant shifts, marked by phases of disengagement and strategic redeployment. This paper underscores the duality of historical entrenchment and contemporary transformation in France's African engagements while reflecting on the broader implications for post-colonial power dynamics.
Keywords: France-Africa relations, Post-colonialism, French Monetary Zone (CFA), Colonial legacy, Political and economic dependency
DOI: 10.36349/sokotojh.2026.v14i01.009
author/Bashir Maiwada, Rabiu Muhammad Ahmad & Mahmoud Dantsoho
journal/Sokoto JH | Vol. 14, Issue 1 | Dec. 2026
