The Côte d'Ivoire, Gabon, and French armies started a joint military exercise called GeX 2026 on November 10. The exercise is divided into two phases, first in Côte d'Ivoire until November 14, and then in Gabon from November 24 to 29. This operation aims to prepare the forces for hybrid and cross-border threats. Côte d'Ivoire has successfully contained jihadist violence in recent years, while Gabon faces other threats such as poaching, illegal gold mining, and piracy.
The exercise involves around 2,000 military personnel, with 1,200 Ivorian soldiers, approximately 600 French troops, and about 100 Gabonese soldiers participating. The operation includes terrestrial, aerial, and maritime resources, such as the amphibious helicopter carrier Mistral and three Mirage 2000 fighter jets. The exercises take place in various locations, including Jacqueville, Yamoussoukro, and Bouaké in Côte d'Ivoire.
The joint exercise illustrates the close military relationship between Paris and its two key African partners. French army chief of staff, General Valentin Seiler, emphasized that the partnership is based on essential principles: respect for each state's sovereignty and interests, trust, and reciprocity. This cooperation comes after France evolved its doctrine in Africa, shifting from permanent military bases to temporary detachments at the request of states.
General Lassina Doumbia, Ivorian army chief of staff, stated that terrorism and criminal networks exploit vulnerabilities and the discontinuity of responses. He stressed that in the face of evolving and cross-border threats, preparation must provide a time advantage. The exercise aims to enhance the preparedness of the forces to address these threats.
France has transformed its military presence in Africa, with the base in Port-Bouët, near Abidjan, being returned to Côte d'Ivoire in 2025. The base in Libreville was converted into a shared camp focused on training. General Seiler explained that the new setup is less exposed to criticism and more flexible.
Côte d'Ivoire has managed to contain jihadist violence with the help of several partners, including France, the United States, Morocco, and Benin. Gabon, on the other hand, is not affected by jihadist attacks but faces other security challenges.
The GeX 2026 exercise demonstrates the commitment of Côte d'Ivoire, Gabon, and France to addressing regional security challenges through cooperation and collaboration. The exercise will enhance the interoperability and preparedness of the participating forces to tackle hybrid and cross-border threats.
Key points
- The joint military exercise GeX 2026 involves around 2,000 military personnel from Côte d'Ivoire, Gabon, and France.
- The exercise aims to prepare the forces for hybrid and cross-border threats.
- The operation is divided into two phases, first in Côte d'Ivoire and then in Gabon.
