© Alet Pretorius/Gallo Images via Getty ImagesFILE PHOTO: EFF supporters marching to the French Embassy on May 25, 2022 in Pretoria, South Africa.
The unity of the continent built on regional integration will help strengthen the economic and political autonomy of its states
France's historical presence in Africa dates back to the 16th century with the beginning of the exploration and colonization of the continent by Europeans. Over the centuries, France extended its influence in many regions of Africa, establishing colonies and protectorates, and imposing its language, culture, and institutions on local populations.
There are several reasons for France's presence in Africa. On the one hand, France sought to expand its colonial empire in order to rival other European powers, particularly England and Germany. It was also motivated by economic interests, such as the exploitation of African natural resources, including rubber, ivory, wood, minerals, and later, oil. Thus, France established colonies in West Africa (Senegal, Ivory Coast, etc.), Central Africa (Congo, Gabon, etc.), and North Africa (Algeria, Tunisia, etc.).
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