The article explores the longstanding relationship between France and Africa, highlighting the continent's significance as a source of resources and geopolitical power for France, encapsulated in the concept of 'Francafrique'. However, the narrative contends that this relationship is currently in crisis, with various French leaders since de Gaulle proving unable to sustain a stable or productive presence in Africa. The piece argues that these failures have culminated in a broader decline of French influence and prestige.

It further elaborates on the idea that every French leader, while aiming to maintain or enhance France's status as a great power through Africa, has fallen into the same traps. Instead of adapting to changing political and economic landscapes, these leaders have continued with outdated policies that no longer resonate with the realities of contemporary African nations. The author suggests that this lack of evolution in strategy has led to a diminishing return on France's investments and interests in Africa.

The article ultimately positions the decline of France’s influence in Africa as a symptom of a deeper identity crisis; both for France itself and for its leaders, who are shown as grappling with the legacy of previous administrations. This reflects not just a political issue, but also a philosophical one, as it questions the country's self-image and its role on the global stage in the 21st century.