Mali’s ruling military government has announced the indefinite suspension of all political activities, including those of parties and civic organisations, citing “reasons of public order.”
The decision, formalised in a decree signed on Wednesday by transitional president General Assimi Goita, comes amid growing unrest and criticism of the junta’s extended hold on power.
The announcement follows a rare pro-democracy protest held in the capital, Bamako, last weekend, during which hundreds of demonstrators defied warnings from the authorities to express opposition to a proposed bill that seeks to dissolve all political parties.
“I’m not surprised, I expected this because this is their way of preventing us from carrying out our activities, but we will continue to defend democracy in Mali,” said protest leader Cheick Oumar Doumbia.
A broader movement, consisting of political parties, civil society leaders, and labour organisations, has been calling for “a rapid and credible return to constitutional order through the organisation of transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections.”
The junta had originally pledged to hold elections in February 2022. However, the timeline has shifted multiple times, raising concerns about the transitional government’s intentions.
This is not the first instance of political suppression ahead of key decisions. In April 2024, the government similarly halted political activity in advance of an “inter-Malian dialogue,” which eventually recommended extending the transition period from two to five years.
Meanwhile, Mali, along with Burkina Faso and Niger, formed the Alliance of Sahel States in 2023 after collectively withdrawing from ECOWAS. The move has been interpreted by analysts as an effort to legitimise the military regimes in the face of sanctions and diplomatic isolation.
All three countries have also distanced themselves from France, their former colonial power, choosing instead to strengthen ties with Russia.
Security threats continue to mount in Mali, as armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State escalate attacks — a crisis that has plagued the country for over a decade.
At least dozens of people, primarily women, have tragically lost their lives after a gold mine collapsed in western Mali on Saturday.
Officials reported that the victims had ventured into an abandoned open-pit mine left by industrial miners, hoping to collect small pieces of gold.
Rescue operations continued late into the evening in Bilali Koto, with emergency crews and volunteers working tirelessly to rescue survivors.
Local authorities have confirmed that many others sustained injuries, and the death toll is expected to climb further.
This disaster sheds light on the growing dangers of unregulated mining, a practice that has significantly increased in recent years.
This marks Mali’s second deadly mining incident in under three weeks, following a landslide at a similar artisanal mine last month, which also claimed the lives of several women.
Mali, one of the largest gold producers globally, still has a largely unregulated mining sector.
Despite the formal withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on January 29, 2025, citizens from these countries will still be able to use their national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo for travel within the region.
ECOWAS has assured that in the interest of regional cooperation and to prevent unnecessary disruptions, all relevant authorities within and outside the bloc’s member states should continue to recognize these travel documents until further notice.
Additionally, trade and economic activities involving these three nations will not face immediate restrictions. Goods and services from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will continue to receive the same treatment under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
Citizens from the affected countries will also retain their right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment across ECOWAS states, ensuring that travel and cross-border activities remain unhindered. Furthermore, officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger working within ECOWAS will be given full support and cooperation in carrying out their assignments.
These measures will remain in place as ECOWAS leaders work on defining the future relationship between the bloc and the three nations. A special structure has been put in place to facilitate discussions on the next steps.
The regional body emphasized that these transitional arrangements aim to maintain stability, minimize confusion, and support the people and businesses affected by the withdrawal.
Malian Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga will meet Ghana’s President, John Mahama, today for high-level discussions in Accra. The meeting is set to focus on a special message from Malian President Assimi Goita.
Prime Minister Maiga arrived in the Ghanaian capital ahead of the scheduled engagement, where he was warmly welcomed at the Kotoka International Airport by Marietta Brew, Legal Counsel to the President, and National Security Adviser Prosper Bani.
The discussions between the two leaders are expected to strengthen diplomatic ties and foster cooperation between Mali and Ghana, with emphasis on the contents of the message conveyed by President Goita.
A 38-year-old man, identified as Pussy Mama, has been remanded by the Kasoa Ofaakor Circuit Court for allegedly trafficking over 3,000 young girls and boys from Nigeria to Ghana, Mali, and other countries for prostitution.
The suspect, of Nigerian descent, appeared before the Ofaakor Circuit Court, presided over by His Lordship Isaac Oheneba Kuffour, and is expected to reappear on October 18, 2024.
Pussy Mama has been on Nigeria and Ghana’s Police wanted list for the past ten years for human trafficking. Arresting him has been a significant challenge due to his perceived use of ‘juju.’
However, he was finally apprehended by a brave young female police officer after trafficking another group of young girls, aged 13-17, to Ghana.
According to a police source, Pussy Mama would always disappear immediately upon touching a wall, earning him a notorious reputation. The Central Regional Chairman for the Nigerian Community, Sir Emmanuel Azubuike, described the suspect as “too powerful.”
Azubuike, also Africa Coordinator for the International Human Rights Observatory, noted that Pussy Mama would always disappear from the hands of Nigerian and Ghanaian police whenever he was arrested.
Azubuike commended the policewoman for her bravery and urged the Ghana Police Service and Chief Justice to be vigilant to prevent another escape.
Mali has announced the severance of diplomatic ties with Ukraine following comments from a Ukrainian military official suggesting Kyiv’s involvement in recent deadly conflicts near the Algerian border.
The clashes resulted in the deaths of numerous Malian soldiers and Russian Wagner group mercenaries during confrontations with Tuareg separatist rebels and al-Qaeda-linked fighters.
Andriy Yusov, a Ukrainian military intelligence spokesman, stated last week that the rebels had received “necessary information” to carry out the attacks.
Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, a senior Malian official, expressed his government’s shock at the allegation and accused Ukraine of infringing on Mali’s sovereignty.
Yusov’s comments “admitted Ukraine’s involvement in a cowardly, treacherous and barbaric attack by armed terrorist groups” that had led to the deaths of Malian soldiers, Col Maiga’s statement said.
Mali has decided to break off relations “with immediate effect”, he said.
Last week, Mali’s army admitted it had suffered “significant” losses during several days of fighting earlier that erupted on 25 July.
Last week, Mali’s military acknowledged experiencing “significant” casualties during several days of intense fighting that began on July 25.
The battles occurred in the desert near Tinzaouaten, a northeastern town bordering Algeria.
According to reports, Malian and Russian forces were ambushed by Tuareg rebels and militants from the al-Qaeda affiliate Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin while they were awaiting reinforcements after retreating from Tinzaouaten.
Though neither the Malian military nor Wagner—now rebranded as the Africa Corps—disclosed precise figures, estimates suggest that Wagner’s losses ranged from 20 to 80 fighters, marking their heaviest toll in Mali since their involvement began two years ago.
Wagner confirmed the death of one of its commanders and the downing of a Russian helicopter amid “fierce fighting,” stating they had faced an assault by approximately 1,000 fighters.
On Thursday, Tuareg-led separatists claimed they had killed 84 Wagner mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers.
Over a decade ago, a Tuareg rebellion seeking a separate state led to the Malian central government losing control over much of the north. The conflict was further complicated by the intervention of Islamist militants.
Citing the previous government’s failure to manage this unrest, the military took power in coups in 2020 and 2021. The new junta then shifted Mali’s longstanding alliance from former colonial power France to Russia in an effort to quell the ongoing conflict.
Ghana has climbed four spots in the latestFIFA rankings followingthe Black Stars’ consecutive victories in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
This advancement has boosted Ghana to 64th place globally and 12th in Africa, surpassing Cape Verde and Burkina Faso, who had previously ranked higher after Ghana’s 2023 AFCON performance.
Prior to the AFCON, Ghana was positioned 61st in the world and 11th in Africa, according to the September 2023 rankings.
However, the Black Stars’ failure to advance beyond the group stage at the AFCON, with two draws and one loss, impacted their standing.
The recent wins against Mali and the Central African Republic in June have helped the four-time African champions improve their position.
Meanwhile, Nigeria has slipped to fifth place in the African rankings after not securing any wins in their two matches in June.
On Thursday, June 13, 2024, the Malian Football Federation announced the dismissal ofhead coach Eric Chelle following a string of poor results in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The decision came shortly after Mali’s 0-0 draw against 10-man Madagascar in Johannesburg.
Despite having a numerical advantage in the 16th minute due to a red card for Madagascar, the Eagles failed to score.
Additionally, Mali had previously lost 2-1 to the Black Stars after leading by one goal, further compounding their recent struggles.
“The executive committee of the Malian Football Federation, meeting in extraordinary session today, unanimously decided, with the agreement of the supervisory authority, to end the collaboration between the coach of the National Team Senior, Mr. Eric Sekou Chelle and the federation,” stated the official announcement.
Eric Chelle, 46, has a multicultural background having been born in Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother and growing up in France.
He spent most of his playing career in France and represented Mali internationally, earning five caps between 2004 and 2006.
Chelle was appointed as Mali’s head coach in May 2022.
However, despite this accomplishment, there were concerns about Mali’s performance as they failed to maintain their lead against the hosts, who were reduced to 10 players.
Ghanaian footballer Mohammed Kudusexpressed his displeasure with comments made by some compatriots on social media regarding his performance during the matches against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR) on June 10, 2024.
Expected to shine on the field, Kudus faced challenges during both games, leading to criticism from some quarters of Ghanaian fans, who urged him to step up his game and avoid complacency.
In response, Kudus defended himself by urging fans to refrain from discussing his performance and to remain silent instead.
One of the criticisms was, “You people should tell Kudus the truth. He’s not Messi, nor is he Ronaldo. He should stop doing too much and release the ball quickly.”
The West Ham United star replied, “Masa, be quiet!!!!!”
Kudus and fans clash
Another tweet went like this: “Mohammed Kudus needs to be talked to. What kind of selfishness and unnecessary ball control is that?”
Kudus replied, urging the critic, “Come and talk to me yourself.”
Kudus played a role as Ghana secured a 4-3 victory against the Central African Republic in their fourth match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Jordan Ayew’s hat-trick and a goal from Fatawu Issahaku sealed the 4-3 win for Ghana against the Central African Republic, who also saw their star forward, Mafouta, score a hat-trick.
Sitting atop Group I with nine points from four games, the Black Stars lead the standings, although the outcomes of the matches between Madagascar versus Mali and Chad versus Comoros could alter the group rankings.
Ghanaian sports broadcaster Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as Countryman Songo, has voiced his criticism of the Black Stars’ technical team for their decision to benchJordan Ayew in Ghana’s 2-1victory over Mali.
Expressing his discontent, Songo suggested that Jordan’s exclusion from the starting lineup was part of a larger agenda against the Ayew family, which he found particularly troubling.
He went further to allege that there was a deliberate effort by the technical team to sideline Jordan, whom he regards as the team’s most talented player.
“It was a plan to bench Jordan Ayew; that’s why you benched him. Jordan Ayew is better than all the current players on the Black Stars. He is ahead of all of them,” he said.
He contended that Thomas Partey pales in comparison to Jordan, emphasizing that the skipper’s position at Arsenal is a testament to his privilege.
Supporting his assertion, he highlighted Partey’s role as a substitute at Arsenal, suggesting that it underscores his lack of impact compared to Jordan.
“He (Joran Ayew) is number 1, then Kudus follows. He is ahead of all of them. For Partey, he’s been privileged to play for Arsenal. Even at Arsenal, he is a bench warmer. Be honest, and the Black Stars will fare well,” he asserted.
Jordan Ayew, initially benched in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali, emerged as the hero with the match-winning goal in the 2-1 triumph.
Despite his limited playing time of less than 20 minutes, Ayew showcased his brilliance, earning plaudits as one of the standout performers of the evening.
The victory has reignited Ghana’s World Cup qualification aspirations, propelling them to third place in the group, level on 6 points with Madagascar and Comoros, who occupy the top two spots.
Following his remarkable impact against Mali, Jordan is anticipated to feature from the start in the upcoming Black Stars’ encounter against the Central African Republic, scheduled for today, June 10, 2024, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Ghana’s national football squad, the Black Stars, are getting ready for their FIFA World Cup Matchday 3qualifying match against Mali.
The group is scheduled to leave Accra on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, for Bamako.
The Black Stars, under the direction of Coach Otto Addo, have been practicing hard in Accra for the last four days in order to be ready for this important game.
The game is scheduled to begin at 19:00 GMT and will be played at the Stade 26 Mars in Bamako.
After a rough start, Ghana’s current objective in Group I of the World Cup qualifiers is to resume their winning ways.
The team beat Madagascar 1-0 at home in Kumasi to start the campaign, but they lost to Comoros 1-0 away in Moroni.
The Black Stars are currently ranked fourth in Group I.
The group is optimistic that winning their next games—especially the one against Mali—will greatly increase their prospects of making it to the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
The United States, Canada, and Mexico will host this esteemed competition.
The game is scheduled to begin at 19:00 GMT and will be played at the Stade 26 Mars in Bamako.
After a rough start, Ghana’s current objective in Group I of the World Cup qualifiers is to resume their winning ways.
The team beat Madagascar 1-0 at home in Kumasi to start the campaign, but they lost to Comoros 1-0 away in Moroni.
The Black Stars are currently ranked fourth in Group I.
The group is optimistic that winning their next games—especially the one against Mali—will greatly increase their prospects of making it to the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Otto Addo has announcedGhana’s 26-man squad for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR) in June.
The Black Stars will first travel to Bamako to face the Eagles on June 6, followed by a home match against CAR in Kumasi on June 10.
Notably, the squad includes debut call-ups for Cagliari midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana and West Bromwich forward Brandon Thomas-Asante.
Asante Kotoko goalkeeper Frederick Asare is the only home-based player included in the selection.
Addo has also retained many of his key players, demonstrating confidence in his established squad for the must-win encounter against Mali on June 6 in Bamako.
Fit-again Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey returns to the squad, alongside Mohammed Kudus (West Ham United), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Alexander Djiku (Fenerbahce Istanbul), Alidu Seidu (Stade Rennes), Tariq Lamptey (Brighton & Hove Albion), Salis Abdul Samed (RC Lens) and Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco).
Striker Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), wingers Kamaldeen Sulemana (FC Southampton), Issahaku Abdul Fatawu (Leicester City), Ernest Nuamah (Olympique Lyon) and Osman Bukari (RS Belgrade) have been named in the 26-man squad
There are also places for Ebenezer Annan (FK Novi Pazar), Ibrahim Osman (FC Nordsjaelland), Jerome Opoku (Istanbul Basaksehir), Abdul Mumin (Rayo Vallecano), Abu Francis (Cercle Brugge) and Brandon Thomas-Asante (West Bromwich) in the squad.
Seven players have been ruled out due to injuries for the upcoming double-header next month.
The injured players include Baba Iddrisu, Majeed Ashimeru, Inaki Williams, Joseph Paintsil, Nathaniel Adjei, Dennis Odoi, and Daniel Amartey.
Additionally, Daniel Kofi Kyere and Joseph Aidoo are confirmed to be sidelined with long-term injuries.
Otto Addo’s 26-man squad will assemble on Thursday morning to commence preparations for the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in USA, Mexico, and Canada.
The Black Stars will undergo training at theUniversity of Ghana Stadium for six days before departing for Bamako on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.
The squad
Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati-Zigi (St Gallen), Jojo Wollacot (Hibernian FC), Frederick Asare (Asante Kotoko)
Defenders: Gideon Mensah (AJ Auxerre),Ebenezer Annan (FK Novi Pazar), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Jerome Opoku (Istanbul Basaksehir), Abdul Mumin (Rayo Vallecano), Alexander Djiku (Fenerbahce Istanbul), Alidu Seidu (Stade Rennes), Tariq Lamptey (Brighton & Hove Albion).
Midfielders: Mohammed Kudus (West Ham United), Ernest Nuamah (Olympique Lyon), Salis Abdul Samed (RC Lens), Ibrahim Sulemana (Cagliari Calcio), Edmund Addo (FK Radnicki Nis), Thomas Partey (FC Arsenal), Elisha Owusu ( AJ Auxerre), Abu Francis (Cercle Brugge).
Forwards: Osman Bukari (RS Belgrade), Issahaku Abdul Fatawu (Leicester City, loan from Sporting CP), Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Ibrahim Osman (FC Nordsjaelland), Kamaldeen Sulemana (FC Southampton), Brandon Thomas-Asante (West Bromwich).
Black Stars coach Otto Addois set to announce his squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR) today, Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
Reports indicate that team captain Andre Dede Ayew has been excluded from the lineup for the doubleheader.
According to Angel FM, Ayew, who concluded the French Ligue 1 season with five goals for Le Havre, was not invited by Addo.
The credibility of these reports is bolstered by a list published by Le Havre, detailing players called up for national duty in June.
This list includes Toure Abdoulaye of Guinea, Sangate Arouna of Senegal, Daler Kuzyaev of Russia, Nego Loic of Hungary, Kone Mohamed, and Operi Christopher of Ivory Coast, but notably omits Ayew.
The omission of Ayew is believed to align with Otto Addo’s new strategy for the team.
Addo recently held discussions with senior players such as Thomas Partey, Andre Ayew, and Daniel Amartey to outline his vision for the team’s future.
Addo plans to gradually reduce reliance on veteran players and focus on developing younger talents.
While some experienced players will still feature in the upcoming qualifiers, their involvement is expected to decrease in future selections.
The revamped Black Stars squad is likely to be led by Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United, with significant contributions from Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Tariq Lamptey, among others.
Black Stars will face Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a match against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 10.
In some parts of Mali, the cost of ice cubes has surpassed that of milk and bread due to record heat.
“I’ve come to buy ice because it’s very hot now,” says 15-year-old Fatouma Yattara as she visits her local vendor in the capital, Bamako.
Amidst extended power outages rendering her fridge useless, she turns to ice cubes as a makeshift solution to preserve food and beat the scorching heat of a heatwave, where temperatures have skyrocketed to 48°C.
It works to an extent, but price hikes are making life even harder. “In some places it’s 100 francs CFA ($0.20; £0.16)” for a small bag, she says, “even 300, 500 – it’s too expensive.”
As a result, ice becomes pricier than bread, with a typical baguette typically priced at around 250 CFA.
For Nana Konaté Traoré, the situation is even more challenging, as she now finds herself compelled to cook daily instead of the previous routine of a few times per week.
“We often go a whole day without power,” she says, “so, the food goes bad, and you have to throw it away”.
The problems began almost a year ago, with Mali’s state power company failing to match growing demand after accumulating hundreds of millions of dollars in debt in recent years. Many Malians do not have back-up generators as it is expensive to refuel them.
No electricity means no fans at night, forcing many to sleep outside. And it is affecting people’s health.
“We really suffer,” says Soumaïla Maïga, a young man from the Yirimadio district on the outskirts of Bamako.
“At night it can reach 46C – it’s unbearable because I suffer from dizziness. I have to pour water on myself to cope.”
Since March, temperatures have soared above 48C in parts of Mali, killing more than 100 people. Most vulnerable are the elderly and the very young.
“We were seeing about 15 hospitalisations a day,” says Prof Yacouba Toloba, who works at the university hospital in Bamako.
“Many patients are dehydrated – the main symptoms are coughs and bronchial congestion. Some also have respiratory distress,” he tells the BBC.
Schools in some areas have closed as a precaution, and people in the Muslim-majority nation were advised not to fast during the Ramadan period which ended recently.
“We need to plan more for these situations, which will perhaps come back. This time it took us by surprise,” adds Prof Toloba.
The deadly heatwave is also affecting neighbouring countries such as Senegal, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger and Chad.
Human-induced climate change is to blame for these extreme highs, according to scientists at World Weather Attribution (WWA).
“Extreme 5-day maximum heat as rare as the observed event over Mali/Burkina Faso would have been 1.5C cooler and 1.4C cooler over the larger Sahel region if humans had not warmed the planet by burning fossil fuels,” their latest report says.
With temperatures expected to remain above 40C in Bamako over the next few weeks, people are trying to adapt to their new normal.
As sun sets in the capital, Ms Konaté Traoré takes several large mats outside to her yard and lays them down.
“We have to be outside all the time because of the heat. When it’s hot I get sick,” she says.
A bus carrying passengers from Mali to Burkina Faso plunged off a bridge over the Bagoe river on Tuesday, killing 31 people and injuring at least 10 others, some of them critically.
The tragic incident occurred around 5:00 PM local time, when the driver of the bus lost control of the vehicle and crashed off the bridge, according to local authorities.
The bus was a large transport vehicle that ferried people from one place to another. The transport ministry said the driver likely failed to steer the bus safely.
The victims of the crash included people from Mali and other West African nations, according to reports.
Road accidents are common in Mali, where the infrastructure and the vehicles are often poorly maintained, and the public transportation system is overcrowded and unregulated.
This is the second major bus crash in Mali this month. On March 8, a bus collided with a truck on the way to Bamako, the capital city, leaving 15 people dead, and 46 others wounded, as reported by the AFP news agency.
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is yet to call for a meeting among member states to discuss the recent exit of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from the bloc.
This information was disclosed by Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo, who expressed regret over the unfortunate decision made by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso to withdraw their membership.
Currently under military rule, these countries have stated that ECOWAS has become obsolete and does not align with their interests.
As the former ECOWAS Chair, President Akufo-Addo noted that this decision would have repercussions for the citizens of those nations.
He mentioned that discussions were pending to assess the consequences of their withdrawal and determine the next steps forward.
“This unfortunate decision by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to withdraw from the ECOWAS community is going to be very negative for the populations there. But ECOWAS is yet to meet. It happened on Sunday, and we are waiting for a signal from the head, Nigerian President Tinubu, to indicate the time when we will have a summit to examine the implications of what has happened and the way forward for the community,” he is quoted to have said by CitiNews.
President Akufo-Addo did not explicitly state what these three countries stand to lose. Being a member of ECOWAS has its advantages. Hence, it is fair to conclude that no longer being a part means one may or can no longer enjoy such privileges.
Some benefits of being a member of ECOWAS include reduced tariffs and quotas, facilitating the flow of goods and services within the region, and free movement of people across member states.
Mali’s mines ministry reported a devastating incident last week, where more than 40 artisanal gold miners lost their lives after a collapsed shaft in southwest Mali.
The tragic event highlights the risks associated with artisanal mining, a prevalent activity in West Africa, driven by increased demand for metals and rising prices.
Artisanal miners often employ outdated and unregulated digging methods, leading to frequent and deadly accidents.
The ministry plans to investigate the incident, emphasizing the need for adherence to safety standards in artisanal mining.
In 2023, Mali’s artisanal mines contributed approximately six tons of gold, according to ministry data.
An Analyst with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Emmanuel K. Bensah, has criticized the recent decision by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from ECOWAS, describing it as an imprudent move.
Bensah believes that the timing for these countries to exit the organization is not ideal, citing potential logistical challenges that may arise as a result.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, currently governed by military regimes that ousted civilian leaders, officially announced their decision to break away from ECOWAS on January 28, 2024.
In a joint statement issued on that day, the countries expressed regret and disappointment, stating, “After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism.”
They asserted that ECOWAS had not provided support to these nations in their fight against terrorism and insecurity.
“Indeed, the organization has not provided assistance to our States in the context of our existential fight against terrorism and insecurity; worse, when these States decided to take their destiny into their own hands, it adopted an irrational and unacceptable posture by imposing illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions in violation of its texts; all things which have further weakened populations already bruised by years of violence imposed by instrumentalized and remote-controlled terrorist hordes.”
The statement further criticized the organization for imposing what they deemed as illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions when the countries decided to take control of their destinies.
However, in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on January 29, 2024, Bensah highlighted the drawbacks of the decision.
“Now these three countries would no longer enjoy the visa-free ration in West Africa. They will now need to apply for Visas to enter Ghana and other ECOWAS countries. Now, what about Malians who are in Ghana, they will no longer be ECOWAS citizens.”
“Malians who are in any other ECOWAS country, they will no longer be ECOWAS citizens, they will not be treated as such. They will now have to apply as if they are aliens to the ECOWAS community.”
He emphasized that citizens of these countries would now face limitations, needing to apply for visas to enter Ghana and other ECOWAS countries. This departure would also mean that Malians and citizens of the other countries would lose their ECOWAS citizenship privileges.
Bensah suggested that a more constructive approach would have been for the countries to engage in dialogue with ECOWAS, expressing their concerns about the treatment they received, rather than opting for withdrawal. He urged the countries to reconsider their decision.
The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has expressed concerns about potential disruptions to its supply chain within West Africa following the recent announcement by military leaders in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to officially leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
According to the President of the Association, Dr. Joseph Obeng, the departure of these countries could create more hurdles in doing business.
“It will surely have an impact, and we do not know how it’s going to affect the free flow of traffic and humans. The earlier we try to find a solution to this better,” he said.
The three countries, currently facing sanctions for overthrowing democratically elected governments, cited inhumane sanctions as the reason for their withdrawal from ECOWAS.
Ghana, particularly, is apprehensive about the economic and food security implications, as its main source of supply for items like onions, tomatoes, and other staples comes from Burkina Faso.
While there are fears of adverse impacts on trade, the country’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Boniface Gambilla, suggests that it is too early to make definitive predictions about the situation.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have collectively declared their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Expressing discontent, the three nations asserted that ECOWAS has strayed from its original purpose, no longer serving their interests.
In a joint press statement issued on Sunday, January 28, the countries formally announced the termination of their membership in the regional organization.
“After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism,” excerpts of the statement said.
Following their suspension by the regional organization for coups and noncompliance with its directives to reinstate civilian rule, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have decided to leave ECOWAS.
The nations have chosen to reject membership in ECOWAS during their suspension, demonstrating their disobedience of the regional body’s policies.
“Indeed, the organisation has not provided assistance to our States in the context of our existential fight against terrorism and insecurity; worse, when these States decided to take their destiny into their own hands, it adopted an irrational and unacceptable posture by imposing illegal, illegitimate, inhumane and irresponsible sanctions in violation of its own texts; all things which have further weakened populations already bruised by years of violence imposed by instrumentalized and remote-controlled terrorist hordes.”
During a summit held in Abuja, Nigeria, in December 2023, West African leaders called for a “short” transitional period towards civilian rule in Niger to consider easing economic sanctions imposed on the country.
Sanctions were imposed following the ousting of Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum in a coup in July 2023. The junta declared a three-year timeline for the restoration of civilian rule.
Mali faced disruptions to civilian rule due to two coups, the first occurring in August 2020, while Burkina Faso witnessed the overthrow of its elected government in 2022.
The recent choice of the three West African nations to exit ECOWAS signifies their dissatisfaction with the regional body’s actions and its departure from its original founding purpose.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has responded to the recent declarations of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regarding their exit from the community.
Despite not receiving formal notifications, ECOWAS emphasizes the importance of the three Member States and is resolute in seeking negotiated solutions to address their political challenges.
The departure announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger on Sunday, citing concerns about ECOWAS deviating from its founding principles and Pan-African spirit, prompted ECOWAS to issue a communiqué.
In this statement, ECOWAS reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with the departing nations to restore constitutional order, following directives from the Authority of Heads of State and Government.
ECOWAS underscores the continued significance of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali as integral members, even amid their current governance under military authorities.
The organization expresses its dedication to finding a resolution to the political impasse and remains committed to strengthening ties with these nations.
Hamari Traore and Lassine Sinayoko scored second-half goals as Mali secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in their Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Captain Traore tapped in the opening goal in the 60th minute of the Group E encounter, and striker Sinayoko quickly added a second for Mali. South Africa had the better of the first half but missed a penalty when Percy Tau’s attempt went high over the crossbar.
Despite Tau’s missed opportunity, South Africa had more chances in the opening period. However, Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra denied Tau twice.
Mali had a near chance to take the lead just before halftime when poor defending from South Africa’s Siyanda Xulu and Mothobi Mvala almost allowed Sinayoko to score.
Mali improved in the second half, and Traore scored the opening goal after a free-kick from Sekou Koita was initially saved by South Africa’s goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Sinayoko extended Mali’s lead six minutes later, securing the victory. South Africa tried to salvage the game in the closing stages but hit the left post with a long-range free-kick in added time.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos reflects on the disappointing 2️⃣➖️0️⃣ Afcon loss to Mali. 📹 supplied by SAFA MEDIA. pic.twitter.com/HdwXs6PcvF
More than 136,000 people are stuck in the old city of Timbuktu in Mali, including about 74,000 children, according to Save the Children.
The NGO said on Monday that people trapped in the city are running out of food and medicine because armed groups are not letting these essential items in.
The NGO said that because the official aid routes are blocked, there are fewer supplies and they are worried that they may have to stop helping people in the city if the crisis isn’t solved soon.
The NGO also mentioned that they have heard about children getting hurt or killed by bombs, and some are also joining armed groups.
Timbuktu is a very important place that is protected by Unesco. It has been attacked by a group of people who are linked to al-Qaeda since August.
The jihadists stopped trucks from other areas from going into Timbuktu. This has led to not enough food, fuel, and other things in the city, and the prices are very high.
Terrorist attacks in the city have made over 33,000 people run away, the UN says.
Fifteen peacekeepers from the United Nations were injured while leaving a rebel area in northern Mali. Their vehicles were hit by explosives.
The United Nations reported that there were two separate instances this week where convoys were attacked by homemade bombs known as improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
On Wednesday, eight peacekeepers got hurt and were taken away by air. They are now doing fine, according to the UN spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric.
On Friday, seven peacekeepers were injured and taken away by plane for treatment. The speaker didn’t give any information about their health.
Mr Dujarric said that on Tuesday, two explosive devices were used to attack the convoy as it was leaving the UN base in Kidal. At least two peacekeepers were hurt in these attacks.
The extremist group called JNIM, which is connected to al-Qaida, said that they were the ones who caused the explosions on Tuesday.
The peacekeepers were supposed to leave the rebel’s territory in a few weeks, but they left earlier because the situation became more tense in that area. Mr Dujarric said the United Nations is unsure if the explosive devices that hit the group of vehicles had been there for a while or if the peacekeepers were purposefully singled out.
But he said the group of vehicles is going to Gao, which is on the east side of the Niger River. It should be easy for most people to understand the path they are using to reach there.
The group of vehicles is going to reach the city by the end of the weekend and from there, the peacekeepers can leave the country by plane.
In 2021, Mali’s military leaders, who took power by force and removed the elected president, told the United Nations peacekeeping force, which had been trying to stop a group of extremists, to go away. The UN force consisted of about 15,000 soldiers and had been in Mali for ten years.
The UN Security Council began the process of leaving Mali, and they wanted everyone to be out by December 31.
The UN has been trying to keep peace in Mali since 2013. This mission, called MINUSMA, is very dangerous and has resulted in the deaths of 300 people. There were about 850 UN peacekeepers in Kidal, along with 150 other mission staff.
A worker from the United Nations (UN) said to the Associated Press that peacekeepers left the base in groups of vehicles because the leaders of Mali’s junta did not give permission for flights to bring back UN staff and equipment.
The military leaders agreed to let the medical evacuation flights happen, according to Mr Dujarric. However, he also mentioned that they are not allowing as many flights as they should to keep our peacekeepers on the ground safe.
After the group of vehicles left Kidal, the town was seized by ethnic Tuareg rebels. These rebels have been fighting against Mali’s military.
Experts say that the violence is a result of the breakdown of a peace agreement made in 2015 between the government and the rebels.
The deal was made after Tuareg rebels forced security forces out of northern Mali in 2012 because they wanted their own separate country.
Mali’s Tuareg rebels have seized a UN base in Kidal, northern Mali, after UN peacekeepers hastily left the area.
The UN mission, Minusma, ended its presence in Kidal due to two explosive attacks on its peacekeepers’ convoy en route to Gao, another significant northern town.
The Tuareg coalition claimed victory on social media, asserting control of the Kidal base. Local sources reported that the rebels occupied the camp immediately after the UN mission’s departure.
This marks the third and final camp evacuated by the mission in the troubled Kidal region, plagued by jihadist and separatist violence.
Despite previous ceasefire agreements with authorities, separatist groups have recently resumed hostilities, opposing the handover of their camps to the Malian army.
Mali’s military government has also called for the UN force to leave the country by year-end, citing the mission’s failure in combating Islamist militants over the past decade.
People who live in cities in Mali are being attacked by a group called al-Qaeda. They say that they don’t have enough food, fuel, or medicine, and the prices of things are going up quickly.
The blockades happened because there is more fighting going on between the army, who have help from Russian Wagner soldiers, and both groups of Islamist fighters and ethnic Tuareg separatist fighters.
For almost two months, a group called Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has been attempting to completely block the historic city of Timbuktu in the north. They are stopping supplies from reaching the city.
Omar Sidi Muhammad, a journalist who lives in the city, said that before the siege, many trucks with food and goods arrived every day. However, now, nothing comes anymore.
In the past, Timbuktu received most of its supplies from Mauritania and Algeria.
Muhammad said that the cost of food coming from nearby countries had increased by two times. The prices of essential items like sugar, flour, oil, and baby formula were all impacted.
“There is not enough fuel available, and the cost of fuel has gone up by 80%. ” There are cooking oil bottles in a little store. The city has been attacked by rockets fired by the militants as well.
“People are scared, but they became even more scared, extremely scared, after the latest events,” he said.
“Many people had to leave because it was dangerous. ”
The United Nations believes that around 33,000 individuals have escaped or left their homes.
In 2012, a group of people called Tuareg rebels took control of Timbuktu after they rebelled against the government. However, shortly after, another group connected to al-Qaeda came and took over the city. They made strict rules based on Islamic law, such as forcing women to cover their faces completely, not allowing music, and cutting off body parts of criminals as punishment. A man and a woman were killed by throwing stones at them because they were married to other people but had a relationship with each other.
A lot of people are afraid that if JNIM does succeed in taking the city again, it will be bad.
After one year of rule by Islamic extremists, the government of Mali recaptured the city with the support of French soldiers. But the French soldiers have left the country because the army took control in 2021, and the UN’s mission to maintain peace is also leaving.
Gao, the biggest city in the north of Mali, is being blocked off by JNIM. It is about 320 km (200 miles) away from Timbuktu.
The militant group gained more power in the past week. A person who lives in the area, and wants to stay anonymous, told the BBC that the city’s electricity supply is being badly affected because there is not enough fuel. Houses are currently receiving electricity for only one hour per day.
“The man said that people are scared because of the war. ” “He said that they are unhappy because the price of food is increasing, and he mentioned that the costs have increased by two times. ”
“Many families have moved away from the city. ”
Normally, the economy of the city relies on trade with Niger and Algeria. However, because of the actions of JNIM, many merchants have been forced to leave the city. As a result, the streets are now empty and abandoned.
‘Prepared for a fight’
The two cities are blocked off because different groups in Mali are quickly trying to take control of the area since the international troops left.
The United Nations said it would stop its mission in Mali and its troops would leave the country by December. This happened because Mali’s military junta refused to let them stay any longer.
This caused both government soldiers and Tuareg separatist groups to promise to take control of the force’s bases in the northern part of the country. The northern area has been under the control of the Tuareg since a peace agreement was reached in 2015.
Fighting started in August over who gets to control a UN site in the town of Ber and has become even more intense since then. JNIM has used the chaos to attack government forces.
Tuareg groups have claimed that they have recently attacked five military bases belonging to the government. They announced their goal of gaining control over the entire northern region of Mali through posts on social media. Their intention is to create a separate and self-governing state called Azawad.
At the same time, the governing military has promised to regain full control of the whole country. On Monday, they sent a big group of soldiers and vehicles towards a town called Kidal in the north. Kidal is an important place for the Tuareg people.
Col Malick Diaw, who is a senior member of the junta, recently told the temporary legislative assembly that making sure the country is safe is extremely important to us.
“We are joining forces with the army to take back our lands from savage groups of people who have been occupying them for a long time. These barbarians have no beliefs, rules, or religion, and their only goal is to harm and kill innocent individuals who just want to live peacefully. ”
Mohamed Mouloude Ramadan, who speaks for a group of Tuareg people called the CMA, told the BBC that they are prepared to prevent something and have been preparing for it for a while.
“We are preparing additional fighters for the fight. ”
A local problem or issue
The fighting in Mali is becoming a danger for other countries in Africa’s Sahel area. The government and Tuareg rebels are asking for help from other countries.
Tuareg groups in Libya, Algeria, and Niger have expressed their support for the separatists in Mali. A rebel leader from Niger has encouraged fighters to join them in fighting on the front line.
A video has been found of a plane crashing and catching fire at an airport in Gao, northern Mali. It is believed to be a plane from Mali’s air force.
Some people have guessed that Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group might have been on the ship, but we do not have proof of this yet.
The plane can be seen landing in what seems to be a late touchdown, and then going past the runway really fast.
Then, it forcefully goes through what seems to be solid barriers made of concrete before tumbling down a slope into a small, low area in the ground and bursting into flames.
A picture of the destroyed plane is now on the internet. It shows that a large part of the plane’s body was burnt. A satellite picture from Planet Labs shows smoke coming from the wreckage. The ground that had been recently dug up between the wreckage and the runway was also noticeable, showing that it went too far past the runway.
Mali’s army has not given a response about the crash yet. The BBC has found some posts on social media that honor a Russian pilot who is believed to have died in the accident.
The airport in Gao, Mali is used by the Malian forces, Wagner mercenaries, and the UN peacekeeping mission.
The country is experiencing more and more attacks from Islamist militants and Tuareg rebels in the northern part.
France has temporarily halted the issuance of new visas for students from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso who were planning to continue their studies in the country.
This decision is a result of the closure of French consular services in these nations.
The suspension of visas follows mass protests in Niger’s capital, Niamey, where demonstrators demanded the withdrawal of France’s ambassador and troops from the West African country.
France had previously suspended cooperation with Niger and Burkina Faso on July 29 and August 6, respectively, in response to the coup in Niger. In November 2022, a similar decision was made for Mali.
Burkina Faso and Mali have expressed solidarity with the military authorities in Niger.
The French embassy in Niger has been closed since the military takeover on July 26, and the French consulate is unable to issue visas. The French Ministry of Research and Higher Education has stated that the suspension of visa services and civil cooperation was forced by security concerns. However, existing collaborations with universities and scientific institutions will continue.
The visa suspension has created challenges for many students, including those who have been accepted to French universities and have paid their registration fees, as well as those still waiting for responses from universities.
France currently hosts around 3,000 Malian, 2,500 Burkinabé, and 1,200 Nigerien students in its higher education institutions.
The Council of Nigeriens in France has called on authorities in Niger and France to find a solution for the affected students. The Union des Scolaires Nigériens has urged students to be patient and realistic, given the diplomatic tensions between Niger and France.
It remains uncertain when France will resume the issuance of visas to students from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Islamist militants in Mali have attacked a boat in the northeastern part of the country. The interim government reports that at least 49 innocent people have been killed in the attack.
They also supposedly attacked a military camp, causing the death of 15 soldiers, and approximately 50 militants are believed to have died.
The government has announced that everyone in the country will be sad and remember someone for three days.
The threat from Islamist militants has been increasing, even though the military says that Russian Wagner Group mercenaries are helping to change the situation in their favor.
The city of Timbuktu in the north has been blocked off since the end of last month, and there have been other recent attacks on transportation.
The BBC could not check if the government’s recent report, which was read on TV, was true.
A group of fighters attacked the boat while it was sailing on the River Niger from Gao to Mopti. The river is an important way for transportation in an area with not many good roads or train tracks.
Another group of fighters also launched an assault on a military base located in the Bourem Circle of the Gao region.
The group called Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), which is connected to al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack on the military camp. However, they have not mentioned anything about the attack on the boat. It is one of many groups that follow Islamic beliefs and operate in the northern part of Mali and nearby countries.
The boat company, Comanav, told AFP news agency that the ship was hit by three rockets that were aimed at its engines.
The boat was stuck on the river and the military came to help people leave, said an official from Comanav (a company), who wanted to stay anonymous.
Since 2020, Mali has been governed by a group of military leaders.
Many people were in favor of the military taking control after large protests against the President. People were angry because they weren’t sure what would happen with the economy, the election was being argued about, and there was a lot of ongoing insecurity.
Afterward, information shows that Mali’s military government hasn’t made much progress in its efforts to fight against the Islamists who are in control of certain areas in the country.
The military leaders in Mali have told French troops and UN peacekeepers to leave the country. They have also asked Russian workers to come and take their place.
A rebel group connected to al-Qaeda and Islamic State started in the northern part of Mali in 2012. Extremist fighters who follow Islam have expanded their influence, moving throughout the Sahel area and particularly to Burkina Faso and Niger.
Islamist militants have launched a devastating attack on a riverboat in northeastern Mali, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 49 innocent lives, as reported by the interim government.
In addition to this horrific assault, these militants targeted an army camp, resulting in the tragic deaths of 15 soldiers, while around 50 militants were reportedly killed in the clashes.
In response to this appalling tragedy, the government has declared three days of national mourning, marking a solemn period of reflection and remembrance.
Despite assertions by the military that Russian Wagner Group mercenaries were helping turn the tide of their campaign, the threat posed by Islamist extremists has continued to escalate.
The city of Timbuktu in northern Mali has been under siege since the previous month, and numerous other recent attacks on transportation and military installations have further underscored the persistent security challenges facing the region.
It’s important to note that the BBC has not independently verified the government’s latest report, which was relayed via national television.
According to reports, the militants targeted the riverboat while it was navigating the River Niger, traveling from the town of Gao to Mopti. This river serves as a crucial transport lifeline in a region where quality roads and railways are scarce.
Simultaneously, militants mounted an attack on an army camp situated in the Bourem Circle within the Gao region.
The Malian army disclosed on social media that the riverboat came under assault at approximately 1100 GMT by “armed terrorist groups.”
It’s worth mentioning that the al-Qaeda-linked group, Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), has claimed responsibility for the attack on the army camp but has made no mention of the riverboat incident. JNIM is one of several Islamist groups operating in northern Mali and neighboring regions.
According to Comanav, the boat operator, the vessel was targeted by at least three rockets aimed at its engines. As a result, the boat was immobilized on the river, prompting the army to launch an evacuation operation to rescue passengers in distress.
Mali has remained under the governance of a military junta since the year 2020.
The junta garnered significant popular support during its seizure of power, following extensive protests against then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. These protests were driven by frustrations over economic instability, a contentious election, and enduring security challenges.
However, subsequent data indicates that Mali’s military government has made limited headway in its efforts to counter Islamist groups that hold sway over parts of the nation.
Mali’s military authorities have issued directives for the withdrawal of French troops and UN peacekeepers from the country, while simultaneously extending an invitation to Russian contractors to assume their roles.
An insurgency with ties to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State first took root in northern Mali back in 2012. Since then, Islamist militants have expanded their influence, spreading throughout the Sahel region, particularly in Burkina Faso and Niger.
Two attacks happened on Thursday in northeastern Mali by people connected to al-Qaeda. These attacks killed 64 people, including many innocent civilians, according to the country’s temporary government.
The attacks happened on a boat carrying passengers on the Niger River near Timbuktu. They also targeted an army base in Bamba, in the northern Gao region. According to the interim government’s statement, 49 civilians and 15 soldiers were killed in the attacks.
It wasn’t clear right away how many people died in each attack.
The Malian Army reported that a group of armed terrorists attacked a passenger boat at 11 a.m. The time in the Rharous Cercle area in the Timbuktu region.
The government explained that a militant group called Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM), which is linked to al Qaeda, took responsibility for the attacks.
The government announced that the country will mourn for three days because there has been more violence lately. The country has already had two military coups in the past three years.
Mali is a country in Africa and is located in the Sahara-Sahel region. It is currently facing challenges from groups of armed extremists.
The United Nations said in June that a lot of violence is happening in northeastern Mali by the Islamic State (ISIS) militant group and its allies, and it does not seem to have an end. This violence is affecting and targeting innocent people.
Many experts are worried about how the situation in the troubled Sahel state is getting worse.
A report from the UN Security Council in August said that Islamic State in the Greater Sahara has gained control over twice as much land in Mali in less than a year.
The UN is worried about Mali’s armed forces and their foreign security partners hurting people’s rights.
Many Russian soldiers from a private military company called Wagner have been asked by the military leaders in Mali to come and help fight against a group of extremist Muslims called Islamists. We don’t know what happened to them after Wagner boss Yevgeny Prighozin died.
UN experts said in a report that violence against women and girls, as well as sexual violence related to conflicts, is still a big problem in Mali.
In June, Mali asked the UN peacekeeping force MINUSMA to leave the country as soon as possible. This is currently happening.
Mali’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, blamed the UN for making the security problems in the country worse.
Almost 9 million people in the country require help and support. UN agencies recently stated that 200,000 children are in danger of not having enough food to eat and could starve.
The United Nations said that if help doesn’t reach them, a lot of children under the age of five could suffer from severe malnutrition. This is because they are in an area with a long-lasting war, many people being forced to leave their homes, and it is difficult for aid to get to them.
The alleged death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Wagner company, will potentially challenge the activities of numerous private military groups in Mali, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Libya.
Wagner is in charge of maintaining security for certain African leaders and in return, they receive valuable minerals and other economic and military benefits.
The group has also played a significant role in using media campaigns to spread Russian influence by mainly discrediting the West.
In the Central African Republic (CAR), the Wagner forces that were invited by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra in 2018 have expanded their influence into different industries like media, timber, and vodka. This is to strengthen their control over the country’s valuable minerals.
Earlier this week, a cultural center called the Russia House in Bangui, which is the capital of the Central African Republic, said that they will have a three-month trade fair. This fair is for Russian businesses that want to grow their operations in the region.
This could potentially allow companies connected to Wagner to work in the CAR and avoid Western punishments.
Yet, the soldiers for hire working in CAR have been blamed for committing terrible acts of violence while battling against rebel groups, which has contributed to the ongoing problems and instability in the country.
Mali’s government, which is led by the military, has started relying a lot on Wagner. Before this, they had stopped making agreements with France and the UN peacekeeping force for security.
In late 2021, around 1,000 hired fighters went to that place, but the authorities say they are not there.
In May, the US punished Wagner’s unofficial leader, Ivan Maslov, for using Mali to get weapons for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The different activities clearly show how important Africa is to Russia’s foreign policy.
But, it is important for Moscow to have loyal Wagner operatives on the continent to strengthen its future control/power.
The danger of the bloodshed in Mali escalating has alarmed the United States, which has pointed to assaults on UN forces as evidence.
Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the State Department, expressed strong disapproval of the attacks, deeming them “unacceptable.” He went on to condemn both the violence itself and the broader menace posed by armed groups operating in the region.
On a separate note, the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, known as Minusma, announced on Monday that it had been compelled to evacuate the northern town of Ber ahead of schedule due to worsening security conditions. The mission reported that its withdrawing troops encountered two instances of attacks, leading to injuries among some of the soldiers.
The US State Department emphasized that these attacks underscore the escalating threat of violence and the pivotal significance of all parties in Mali finding peaceful resolutions to their differences.
“It is critical that Minusma be permitted to conduct its withdrawal in a safe and orderly manner, and we call on the transition government to cooperate fully until the final Minusma element departs,” it adds.
“Though the Christian leadership and the wider Ghanaian community are not utterly surprised by the statement, we find such statement to be unfortunate and intended to subtly intimidate our lawmakers and business community into kowtowing to the cultural desires and the value preferences of a small but financially influential minority group in the US in particular and the western countries in general.”
Some member states of the Economic Community of West African States ( ECOWAS) did not attend the ECOWAS military chiefs meeting held in Accra, which started on Thursday, August 16, 2023.
The meeting was a follow-up to the directive of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at its Extraordinary Summit on the political situation in Niger held on August 10, 2023 in Abuja, Nigeria. The ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) was tasked to activate the ECOWAS Standby Force for the restoration of constitutional order in Niger.
The CCDS had an extraordinary meeting in Accra, Ghana from August 17 to 18, 2023 to finalise plans for the deployment of the Standby Force.
Addressing the gathering on the first day of the meeting, Minister of Defence of Ghana Dominic Nitiwul explained that some countries, including Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso and Guinea, were absent due to the sanctions imposed on them.
“Four of our member states [Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso and Guinea] are now facing sanctions for resorting to unconstitutional change of government which contradicts the ECOWAS protocol on good governance and democracy,” he said.
According to ECOWAS, these countries have been suspended from its bodies and have faced economic and financial sanctions after their respective military coups that ousted their elected leaders. Mali underwent two coups in August 2020 and May 2021, followed by Guinea in September 2021 and Burkina Faso in January 2023.
ECOWAS has been keen to limit political instability in the region and has urged the military juntas to shorten their transition periods and return to civilian rule.
Also, Guinea Bissau and Cape Verde were also present. According to the Minister, they had “genuine reasons” for their absence.
In light of attacks on UN forces, the United States has expressed alarm about the possibility of Mali’s conflict escalating.
The attacks were “unacceptable,” according to State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, who also denounced “such violence and the greater threat posed by armed actors operating” there.
The UN peacekeeping operation in Mali, Minusma, announced on Monday that deteriorating security had compelled them to leave the northern town of Ber earlier than usual.
It claimed that two attacks on its retreating forces resulted in some of the soldiers being hurt.
According to the US State Department, the attacks show how dangerous escalating violence is and how crucial it is for all Malian parties to resolve their issues amicably.
It continues, “We call on the transition administration to cooperate completely until the final Minusma element departs. It is essential that Minusma be permitted to undertake its departure in a secure and orderly way.
France has opted to suspend all forms of developmental aid and financial support for Burkina Faso.
This decision follows a declaration from Burkina Faso’s military regime, affirming that they would perceive any form of armed intervention against the coup leaders in neighboring Niger as a declaration of war. A similar stance has been taken by the military government in Mali.
This development coincides with the expiration of a deadline set by the West African bloc Ecowas for the military coup leaders in Niger to reinstate constitutional order and restore the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
As of Sunday evening, Ecowas has not issued a statement regarding its forthcoming actions, which could involve military intervention.
The coalition had previously communicated that such intervention would be considered a “last option” if all diplomatic and political alternatives prove ineffective.
Mali has announced its intention to dispatch a joint delegation alongside Burkina Faso to Niger, as an expression of solidarity.
This decision follows closely on the heels of a defiance exhibited by the military generals who seized control in Niger against an ultimatum demanding the restoration of the elected president or the potential initiation of armed intervention by fellow West African nations.
The junta in control of Niger’s military declared the closure of the country’s airspace and signaled preparations to safeguard its territorial integrity.
Despite the issued ultimatum, the member nations of the regional group Ecowas are divided regarding the adoption of military measures.
Notably, Nigeria and Ivory Coast are steadfast in their stance that President Mohamed Bazoum should be reinstated.
In a contrasting perspective, the military administrations in Mali and Burkina Faso have indicated their alignment with the coup leaders, asserting their support in the event of an external attack.
A significant gathering has taken place at a square in central Niamey, the capital of Niger, with people showing their support for the recent military coup.
On the occasion of the country’s independence anniversary, a coalition of civil society organizations called on the public to denounce the sanctions imposed by the West African regional bloc, Ecowas, and warned that force could be used if President Mohamed Bazoum is not reinstated.
The square witnessed a sizable crowd, mostly composed of young men, expressing their backing for the coup leaders.
Amid the show of support, anti-French slogans were chanted, and a few Russian flags were displayed.
Despite this display of solidarity with the coup, there remains widespread opposition to the military takeover among many Nigerien citizens.
Some view the coup as an attempt by senior soldiers to safeguard their positions and preserve their authority, fearing being replaced if they relinquished power.
To justify their actions, there is a growing trend of anti-French sentiment being fostered by the coup leaders, echoing similar events in Mali and Burkina Faso, where the military took over and subsequently strengthened ties with Russia.
The situation in Niger bears similarities to these past instances, leading to concerns and reactions from various sectors of society.
In the past three years, the West African sub-region has witnessed a total of six successful coups, raising concerns due to their shared characteristics.
Mali experienced two coups, the first in August 2020 and the second in May 2021. Guinea faced a military takeover in 2021, while Burkina Faso encountered two coups in January and September 2022.
In Mali’s case, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was ousted from power by a military coalition in August. Subsequently, Mali’s former Defense Minister, Bah Ndaw, assumed the presidency of the new transitional government, with Colonel Assimi Goita appointed as vice president. However, they were both removed from power a year later in May by Colonel Assimi Goita.
Colonel Assimi Goita
On September 5, 2021, Guinea experienced a coup d’état as the armed forces captured President Alpha Condé, who had extended his stay in power through a constitutional amendment.
In Burkina Faso, President Roch Kabore was ousted from power on January 24, 2022, following a coup led by Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba. However, eight months later, military rule was reestablished, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
Captain Ibrahim Traoré
The most recent incident is the military takeover in Niger, where General Abdourahamane Tchiani orchestrated a coup on July 26, 2023, overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum.
So who is next?
Experts are troubled by the similarities underlying these coups. In many cases, corruption, political instability, and deteriorating security have been the driving factors.
Guinea’s situation stemmed from President Condé’s alteration of the constitution to extend his term beyond the mandated two terms. He secured a controversial third term in an election marred by violence and alleged irregularities in October 2020.
In Burkina Faso, the escalation of a jihadist insurgency contributed to the leadership change, which was also the reason behind Colonel Assimi Goita’s removal from power.
A recurring theme across these incidents is leaders’ failure to safeguard their citizens. This pattern persists in Niger, as President Bazoum’s administration has faced criticism for inadequately addressing the region’s entrenched violent Islamist extremism over the past decade.
President Mohammed Bazoum
The United Nations Security Council reported that West Africa endured over 1,800 attacks in the first half of 2023, resulting in nearly 4,600 fatalities and grave humanitarian repercussions. Due to these terrorist activities, approximately half a million individuals in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are refugees, with nearly 6.2 million internally displaced.
Experts are concerned that this trend of military takeover is far from over.
Engaging JoyNews on the issue of coups in the West African Sub-region on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, security expert Dr Vladimir Antwi-Danso noted that the subject matter of human security has been trivialised by governments.
Dr Vladimir Antwi-Danso
He argued that there has been a misplaced priority as the leaders are more interested in maintaining power and conforming to a democratic structure seeking to please global leaders.
“The point is that we have similar specificities within the West African sub Region. Regime security should have been a thing of the past and human security assures the people of a collective way of moving forward.
“Unfortunately, government upon government of the sub region are thinking about the next election, satisfying global norm that there is democracy – frequent elections, institutions of state etc,” he said.
With the issue of political instability in mind, he made a projection on which country in the sub-region is likely to face the same fate as Niger and the others.
Senegal, Mr Antwi-Danso, is currently prone to a dissolution of democratic governance.
“Look at what is happening in Senegal. What is ECOWAS waiting for before they trigger the Panel of the wise to be able to at least, cool things down. And they have a problem with Casamance already. And then the population, a lot of them, it is about 18-20 percent unemployment rate in Senegal, and yet what is happening is so bad.
And when it goes so bad what happens is what I talk about as Systemic Coup. The military will just see that let us intervene before there is an implosion. So I will not be surprised that in future, you will see something like that in Senegal also,” he explained.
Why Senegal?
Senegal is a West African country that has been widely regarded as a model of democracy and stability in the region. However, in recent months, the country has been rocked by protests and violence over the government’s alleged attempts to stifle the opposition and manipulate the electoral process.
The protests were sparked by the decision of the constitutional council, the highest judicial body in Senegal, to invalidate the list of candidates submitted by the main opposition coalition, Pastef-Les Patriotes, for the upcoming legislative elections on July 31.
The council said the list did not meet the legal requirements, such as having a minimum number of female candidates and paying a deposit fee. The opposition denounced the decision as a political maneuver to exclude its leader, Ousmane Sonko, and other prominent opponents from running.
Ousmane Sonko
Sonko is a popular and outspoken critic of President Macky Sall, who has been in power since 2012. Sonko came third in the 2019 presidential election and is seen as a potential contender for the 2024 election.
He has accused Sall of corruption, nepotism, and authoritarianism. He has also faced legal troubles, such as being arrested in March on rape charges that he claims were fabricated to eliminate him from politics. His arrest triggered a wave of violent protests that left at least 14 people dead.
On June 18, thousands of Sonko’s supporters took to the streets in Dakar and other cities to demand his reinstatement on the ballot and to denounce Sall’s rule. The protests turned violent as protesters clashed with security forces, who used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse them.
According to Amnesty International, at least three people were killed and dozens were injured in the unrest. Several opposition figures were also arrested and charged with inciting violence and insurrection.
The protests have exposed the deepening political crisis and social discontent in Senegal, which is facing economic challenges, rising poverty, and high unemployment, especially among the youth.
They have also raised concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Senegal. Some observers have warned that Senegal’s democratic credentials are at risk of eroding under Sall’s administration, which has been accused of using the judiciary and security forces to silence dissent and consolidate power.
The international community, including regional bodies such as ECOWAS and the AU, have called for dialogue and restraint from all parties to preserve peace and stability in Senegal. They have also urged the government to respect the rights of citizens to protest peacefully and to participate in free and fair elections.
The opposition, meanwhile, has vowed to continue its mobilization until its demands are met. The outcome of the legislative elections, which will determine the composition of the 165-seat National Assembly, will have significant implications for Senegal’s political future and its role in West Africa.
Casamance
Casamance is a region in southern Senegal that has been the site of a separatist rebellion since 1982. The rebels, known as the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC), claim that the region has been neglected and exploited by the central government in Dakar. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced tens of thousands of people. It has also hampered the development of the region, which is rich in natural resources and tourism potential.
The situation in Casamance has been affected by the recent political crisis and protests in Senegal over the government’s alleged attempts to sideline the opposition and manipulate the electoral process. Some observers have suggested that the government may be using the Casamance issue as a diversion from its domestic problems, or as a bargaining chip with the opposition.
In March 2022, the Senegalese army launched a military offensive against one of the factions of the MFDC, led by Salif Sadio, who is considered to be the most radical and violent among the rebel leaders. The offensive came after four Senegalese soldiers were killed and seven others captured by Sadio’s fighters in a border area with Gambia in January. The army said it aimed to dismantle Sadio’s bases and restore security in the area.
The offensive has put pressure on Sadio’s faction, which has been weakened by internal divisions, defections, and lack of external support. Some of his fighters have surrendered or fled to neighbouring countries. However, Sadio himself remains at large and has vowed to continue his struggle until independence is achieved.
Meanwhile, another faction of the MFDC, led by Cesar Atoute Badiate, who is seen as more moderate and pragmatic than Sadio, has expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the government and end the conflict peacefully. In May 2023, Badiate’s faction signed a peace agreement with a local civil society group, known as Diakaye Platform for Peace, which has been mediating between the rebels and the authorities. The agreement calls for a ceasefire, disarmament, demining, and development projects in Casamance.
The government has welcomed the agreement as a positive step towards resolving the Casamance issue, but has also stressed that any dialogue with the rebels must be based on respect for Senegal’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty. The government has also called on Sadio’s faction to join the peace process and renounce violence.
The prospects for peace in Casamance depend largely on the political will and commitment of both sides to find a lasting solution that addresses the root causes and grievances of the conflict.
It also requires the involvement and support of other actors, such as civil society groups, religious leaders, traditional authorities, neighbouring countries, and regional and international organisations. Peace in Casamance would not only benefit the people of the region, but also contribute to stability and development in Senegal and West Africa.
Senegal's interior minister said it had dissolved the party of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko for rallying supporters into stoking violence during protests last month, prompting more calls for resistance as demonstrators clashed with police https://t.co/4JLXdqO0Hupic.twitter.com/qGBIiaZHR1
Meanwhile, the Dr Antwi-Danso warns that Ghana, despite being tagged as a respecter of democracy could be hit by the unexpected.
Dr Antwi-Danso indicated that the indiscipline in the country puts the nation at risk of a military taker.
“With Ghana, we should be very careful. Let’s not play the ostrich that everybody sees Ghana as a serious Democratic country.
“The level of indiscipline in the country, the lack of human security is such that when there is anything untoward, we will see some explosion in Ghana.
“There is hardly any country in the West African sub region that does not have the ingredient for implosion and that is what we should be thinking about,” he explained.
A profound moment of transformation unfolded as the Mali government, with unwavering determination, made history by officially removing French from its list of official state languages.
For generations, French has been the language of administration, education, and official discourse in Mali, serving as a stark reminder of the colonial era when the country was under French rule.
This monumental shift has not gone unnoticed by pan-Africanists and scholars across the continent. Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, who is a respected Ghanaian pan-Africanist and influential voice in the media landscape, has turned his attention to the development.
As Mali takes a bold step in removing French from its list of official state languages, Pratt has raised pertinent questions, challenging Africa’s readiness to embrace this transformative linguistic shift.
“The Mali government has officially removed French from its list of official state languages, signaling a move away from the country’s colonial past. Is a wind of change blowing on the African continent, and are we prepared for the ramifications from the Western world?” he tweeted.
With its new constitution, Mali has dropped French, which has been the country’s official language since 1960.
According to reports, under the new constitution passed overwhelmingly with 96.91% of the vote in a June 18 referendum, French is no longer the official language. Although French will be the working language, 13 other national languages spoken in the country will receive official language status.
Mali has about 70 other local languages spoken in the country and some of them, including Bambara, Bobo, Dogon, and Minianka, were granted national language status under a 1982 decree.
Recall that Mali’s junta leader Col. Assimi Goita put the country’s new constitution into effect, marking the beginning of the Fourth Republic in the West African nation.
According to the Presidency, Mali’s military since taking power in an August 2020 coup, has maintained that the constitution would be critical to rebuilding the country.
Mali witnessed two subsequent coups in recent years, one in August 2020 and the other in May 2021.
The junta had initially promised to hold elections in February 2022 but later delayed them to February 2024.
The decision by Mali to drop French comes at a time of growing anti-French sentiment across West Africa due to its perceived military and political interference.
Malian Prime Minister, Choguel Kokalla Maïga, has condemned the US sanctions imposed on the defence minister, air force chief of staff, and his deputy.
He dismissed the sanctions as a mere “distraction” and expressed his unwavering support for the junta officials.
“The sanctions against our valiant officers, Defence Minister Col Sadio Camara, Gen Alou Boi Diarra, Col Adama Bagayoko, have no objectives other than to distract the Malian people. Nothing will distract us from the work of rebuilding Mali,” Mr Maïga has tweeted.
The US Treasury imposed sanction on the three for “facilitating” the expansion of Russia’s Wagner Group in Mali.
The Wagner troops, alongside the Malian army, are facing accusations of committing atrocities in their campaign against jihadists. The United States has reported a significant increase in civilian casualties since their deployment in late 2021.
Among the senior officials in the military government, the Malian Prime Minister stands as the only one to have addressed the issue of sanctions.
The response from Mali, so far, has been measured, in contrast to previous instances where government spokesman Col Abdoulaye Maïga delivered strong rhetoric and accusations of plots to destabilize the ruling junta in diplomatic disputes, particularly with France and the UN.
For having “facilitated the deployment and expansion” of the Russian paramilitary group Wagner‘s actions in Mali, the United States on Monday slapped economic sanctions against three Malian officers, among them the current Minister of Defence.
Three Malian army personnel are the focus of these sanctions: Colonel Sadio Camara, Minister of Defence and French national, Colonel Alou Boi Diarra, and Lieutenant-Colonel Adama Bagayoko, both Air Force officials.
According to a statement from the US Treasury, there is “evidence showing that these Malian officials contributed to the malicious activities of the Wagner group in Mali”.
The Wagner Group’s entrenchment in Mali during the last two years has been exposed by today’s action, according to important Malian officials. Brian Nelson, the under secretary of the Treasury for financial and terrorist intelligence, was quoted as saying in the statement.
“These officials have made their people vulnerable to the Wagner Group’s destabilising activities and human rights abuses while paving the way for the exploitation of their country’s sovereign resources to benefit the Wagner Group’s operations in Ukraine,” he continued.
These three officials are not allowed to conduct business with American citizens or firms, and their American assets have been blocked.
Washington claims that since the Wagner group arrived in Mali in December 2021, there have been 278% more civilian casualties there, particularly as a result of actions conducted by the Malian armed forces alongside members of the Wagner group.
The United States imposed economic penalties on this group in June 2017 and subsequently renewed them in January 2018.
Following Yevgeny Prigojine’s 24-hour insurrection in Russia in June, Wagner’s future, who fought in the Ukraine and whose presence has been confirmed in various African nations as well as Syria, is in doubt.
Moscow stated that the “countries involved” will determine its future in Africa.
The military government in Mali has recently approved a new constitution that grants increased powers to the president and the armed forces.
It also introduces a senate and downgrades French from an official language to a working language.
Since 2020, Mali has been under the rule of a junta. The opposition movement has strongly criticized the constitutional reforms, which were reported to have received 97% support in the recent referendum, with a reported turnout of 38%.
Critics of the changes fear that they may enable the military generals to backtrack on their promise of returning power to civilian leaders after the presidential election scheduled for February 2024.
With the new constitution in place, Interim President Col Assimi Goïta now wields significant authority to shape government policies and dissolve parliament.
An attempt to invalidate the referendum results due to the vote not being conducted in all parts of Mali was rejected by the constitutional court. The opposition movement, consisting of political parties and civil society organizations, also claims that “numerous irregularities” and “violations of the law” occurred during the referendum.
The adoption of the new constitution has sparked concerns about its impact on democracy, and many people fear the implications for civilian governance.
The military junta initially gained popular support when it took control after protests against then-President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta three years ago. However, data indicates limited progress in countering the Islamist insurgency that holds sway in parts of the country.
The Malian government argues that the new constitution will aid in curbing the spread of the 11-year-long jihadist insurgency. The decision to remove all 12,000 UN peacekeepers from the country and the employment of around 1,000 Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group for security support further underscore the complexities of the security situation in Mali.
Relations with former colonial power France have also soured, contributing to the evolving dynamics in West Africa.
Due to a minor typing error, millions of emails intended for the US military’s “.mil” domain have been mistakenly sent to Mali, a Russian ally, which uses the “.ml” suffix.
This issue has been ongoing for years, and it has been reported that some of the misdirected emails contained sensitive information such as passwords, medical records, and the itineraries of high-ranking officers.
The Pentagon has acknowledged the problem and has taken measures to address it. The Financial Times, which initially broke the story, stated that Dutch internet entrepreneur Johannes Zuurbier discovered the issue over a decade ago.
Since 2013, Zuurbier has been responsible for managing Mali’s country domain and has reportedly collected tens of thousands of misrouted emails in recent months.
Although none of the emails were labeled as classified, they reportedly included various sensitive materials such as medical data, maps of US military installations, financial records, official trip plans, and some diplomatic communications.
Zuurbier recently sent a letter to US officials to raise awareness of the situation. He highlighted that his contract with the Mali government is nearing its end, emphasizing the real risk and potential exploitation by adversaries of the United States.
The domain control was scheduled to be transferred to Mali’s military government on Monday. Requests for comment have been made to Mr. Zuurbier regarding the matter.
US military communications that are marked “classified” and “top secret” are transmitted through separate IT systems that make it unlikely they will be accidently compromised, according to current and former US officials.
But Steven Stransky, a lawyer who previously served as senior counsel to the Department of Homeland Security’s Intelligence Law Division, said that even seemingly harmless information could prove useful to US adversaries, particularly if it included details of individual personnel.
“Those sorts of communications would mean that a foreign actor can start building dossiers on our own military personnel, for espionage purposes, or could try to get them to disclose information in exchange for financial benefit,” Mr Stransky said. “It’s certainly information that a foreign government can use.”
Image caption,Mali has become increasingly close with Russia since a 2020 coup unseated its former government
Lee McKnight, a professor of information studies at Syracuse University, said he believed the US military was fortunate that the issue was brought to its attention and the emails were going to a domain used by Mali’s government, rather than to cyber criminals.
He added that “typo-squatting” – a type of cyber-crime that targets users who incorrectly misspell an internet domain – is common. “They’re hoping that a person will make a mistake, and that they can lure you in and do stupid things,” he said.
When contacted by the BBC, a spokesperson said the defence department was aware of the issue and it was being taken seriously.
They said the department had taken steps to ensure that “.mil” emails are not sent to incorrect domains, including blocking them before they leave and notifying senders that they must validate intended recipients.
Both Mr McKnight and Mr Stransky said human errors were prime concerns for IT specialists working in government and the private sector alike.
“Human error is by far the most significant security concern on a day-to-day basis,” Mr Stransky said. “We just can’t control every single human, every single time”.
In the aftermath of negotiations with Russia’s ambassador to Mali, a spokesman for Mali’s Tuareg armed factions voiced confidence in the country’s reconciliation process.
The armed groups have previously warned that the removal of the UN’s peacekeeping force in the nation, Minusma, would give a “fatal blow” to the peace effort in northern Mali.
Ex-rebels have already expressed concerns about the future of the 2015 peace accord, which officially ended the separatist insurrection in northern Mali.
“We met today with the ambassador of the Russian Federation to Mali, His Excellency Igor Gromyko. The discussions on a number of topical issues and concerns were very productive and reassuring,” Attaye Ag Mohammed said on Twitter.
The Wagner group’s recent mutiny in Russia, which has deployed thousands of mercenaries to Mali since 2022, has raised concerns about the Malian army’s ability to deal with militant violence on its own as the UN withdraws.
The situation of Wagner fighters in the country is still unknown.
The United Nations Security Council has concluded the peacekeeping mission in Mali, following a request from the ruling military to withdraw the international force involved in combating an armed rebellion.
The mission, known as MINUSMA, has faced challenges and government restrictions in recent years, particularly after Mali collaborated with Russia’s Wagner mercenary group in 2021.
In a resolution drafted by France, the 15-member Council unanimously called for the mission to begin the process of ending its operations, transferring its tasks, and safely withdrawing its personnel. The objective is to complete this process by December 31, 2023.
UN peacekeepers have played a crucial role in protecting civilians from the violence of the armed rebellion, which has resulted in the loss of many lives. Concerns have been raised about the security situation deteriorating once the mission leaves, as Mali’s under-equipped army will be left to face fighters who control significant portions of territory in the desert regions of the north and center, along with around 1,000 Wagner fighters.
The Security Council resolution grants MINUSMA the authority to respond to imminent threats of violence against civilians in its immediate vicinity and contribute to the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance, with civilian leadership, until September 30.
It asked UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to work with the Malian authorities on a plan to transfer MINUSMA’s tasks and present it to the Security Council by August 15. It called on Mali to cooperate fully with the UN during MINUSMA’s withdrawal.
When asking for MINUSMA to leave, Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop told the Security Council earlier this month there was a “crisis of confidence” between the UN operation and the Malian authorities.
Until December 31, MINUSMA is also authorised to provide security for UN personnel, facilities, convoys, installations and equipment and associated personnel, and execute operations to extract UN personnel and humanitarian workers in danger and provide medical evacuations.
International reaction
The United States deputy ambassador, Jeffrey DeLaurentis, expressed regret at the military government’s decision to abandon the UN mission. He also said “some domestic actors” in Mali are calling for harassment of peacekeepers and urged the mission to ensure the safe and orderly transfer of UN facilities and equipment to UN-designated places.
“The UN has a responsibility to minimise the risk that its assets fall into the hands of those looking to destabilise Mali, or bring harm to its people, including violent extremist organisations and the Wagner Group,” he said.
The United Kingdom’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Barbara Woodward, expressed her disappointment that Mali requested the departure of peacekeepers during a period when the region is experiencing escalating instability and humanitarian challenges.
On the other hand, Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, reaffirmed his country’s unwavering support for Mali, both in terms of military-technical assistance and humanitarian and economic aid.
Mali has been grappling with an armed rebellion since a revolt in 2012. In response, the UN Security Council deployed MINUSMA in 2013 to assist in the restoration of stability through international and local efforts.
On Friday June 30, the UN Security Council unanimously approved the request from Bamako to withdraw its peacekeeping mission, MINUSMA, from Mali.
The mission was established by the Security Council in 2013 with the aim of promoting peace and stability in the country. Mali expressed its satisfaction with the decision and welcomed the adoption of the resolution, which was drafted by France.
“MINUSMA has certainly not achieved its fundamental goal of supporting the efforts of the government in securing the country,” Issa Konfourou, Mali’s ambassador to UN, said following the vote
“Nevertheless the people and the government of Mali will like to applaud its contribution in other areas in particular in the area of humanitarian and social assistance,” Konfourou said.
The mission, consisting of 17,430 personnel, was established in 2012 in response to the political instability and armed conflict that engulfed Mali. During that period, rebels and fighters associated with al-Qaeda seized significant portions of northern Mali.
On June 16, Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, expressed the country’s desire for the Blue Helmets (UN peacekeeping forces) to leave the country once their mandate expires on June 30th.
“The government of Mali calls for the withdrawal without delay of MINUSMA,” Diop said, adding that Bamako “is willing to cooperate with the United Nations on this issue.”
What is in the draft?
The resolution effectively ends the mandate of the peacekeeping mission on June 30th and instructs the mission to begin withdrawing its personnel starting from July 1st.
According to the resolution, the withdrawal process is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
Mali has made it clear that there will be no extension to the specified timeframe.
“The government of Mali will be vigilant in ensuring compliance with this engagement,” Konfourou said.
“As a responsible government, the Malian authorities are committed to closely cooperating with the Secretariat of the United Nations and MINUSMA in the framework of the prompt implementation of this resolution within the established time frame,” he added.
Where possible and with the permission of Mali, the resolution allows MINUSMA to respond to “imminent threat of violence to civilians.”
According to the resolution, MINUSMA is also authorised to assist in the safe civilian-led delivery of humanitarian assistance in its immediate vicinity.
Why Mali wants troops out
In recent times, there has been a rise in tensions between Mali and the United Nations. Bamako has leveled accusations against the long-standing mission, claiming that it has worsened the situation in the country, which is home to a population of over 20 million.
“MINUSMA seems to have become part of the problem by fuelling community tensions exacerbated by extremely serious allegations which are highly detrimental to peace, reconciliation and national cohesion in Mali,” Diop said.
“This situation generates a feeling of distrust among the populations with regard to MINUSMA,” he added.
Meanwhile, MINUSMA has repeatedly complained about restrictions on troop and aircraft movements.
The mission claims that these restrictions have prevented it from fulfilling its mandate, including investigating alleged human rights abuses by the mercenary group Wagner and Mali’s army.
Both Bamako and Wagner deny these allegations.
Analyst say the withdrawal of the peacekeepers could have a profound impact on the stability of the country.
“The withdrawal of the UN peacekeepers will undermine prospects for keeping alive the 2015 peace agreement between the government and the Tuareg separatists who had rebelled in the North but then settled for decentralisation within a united Mali,” Paul Melly, a researcher at Chatham House, a London-based think tank told Al Jazeera.
“It will leave many communities across the North of the country with reduced protection from the risk of jihadist attacks and it will underline the basic public administration and welfare and humanitarian programmes that the UN has been supporting,” Melly said.
Deadly, expensive mission
MINUSMA has suffered more than 300 fatalities, making it the deadliest UN peacekeeping operation. With a budget of $1.2bn, MINUSMA is also the most expensive mission of the organisation.
Following the passage of the resolution, UN chief Antonio Guterres expressed his “profound respect to the memory of the 309 MINUSMA personnel who lost their lives in the service of peace during 10 years the mission was deployed in Mali,” Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the Secretary-General said in a statement.
What’s the government’s plan?
Without elaborating, Bamako stated that it is able to guarantee the safety of all its citizens, wherever they may be in the vast landlocked country.
“I would like to reassure you of the full engagement of the government of Mali to continue working tirelessly to fulfil its primary mission of protecting the civilian population and their property over all our national territory,” Konfourou said.
In 2021, Mali’s military rulers signed a deal with the Russian mercenary group Wagner to assist in its fight against armed groups.
This move drew strong condemnation from Western countries, who argued that the presence of the mercenary group threatens the stability of Mali.
Moscow and Bamako have stated that the Russian fighters in Mali are not mercenaries but trainers who are aiding local troops in combating rebel groups.
Wagner fighters have been accused of involvement in an incident last year in Moura, central Mali – where local troops and suspected Russian fighters allegedly killed hundreds of civilians.
“Wagner does not have the military resources of the UN, nor the same commitment to community mediation, human rights and ‘hearts and minds’ initiatives,” Melly said.
On Friday, Washington accused Wagner of destabilising Mali, further stating that the group collaborated with Bamako to facilitate the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers from the country.
“We know that senior Malian officials worked directly with Yevgeny Prighozin employees to inform the UN secretary-general that Mali had revoked consent for the MINUSMA mission,” US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.
Dire humanitarian situation
According to the UN, at least 7.5 million Malians are in need of humanitarian assistance. The UN also reports that one in four Malians is food insecure due to insecurity and the impacts of climate change.
Analysts warn that with UN troops fully withdrawing by the end of December, the humanitarian situation in the country could worsen.
“The humanitarian situation will probably get worse. We may see more displaced populations and greater problems in ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of aid to vulnerable people,” Melly said.
As MINUSMA’s time in Mali comes to an end, analysts say that the mission has had a tangible effect on the country.
“MINUSMA has played a valuable role in providing some stability and security protection for communities across the north of Mali,” he added.
“It has also underpinned the provision of public basic services and administration in some areas where government officials or humanitarian agencies would have found it difficult to operate without some underpinning security backup.”
The military took over Mali last year and brought in mercenaries from the Wagner group from Russia, forcing France to withdraw its troops.
How come the UN dispatched a peacekeeping mission to Mali?
After Islamist fighters and rebels from the south of Mali united and took control of the region in 2013, the UN sent a mission there. A distinct state was what they aimed to establish.
The UN peacekeepers arrived after 5,000 French troops, who were sent to try and put down the uprising.
The threat from Islamist militants, who have killed several thousand people and forced tens of thousands from their homes, has continued over the years.
While the UN force in Mali has a wider brief to protect civilians and contain the jihadist threat, it is not intended to go on the offensive against militants.
In Mali and across the wider region attacks have been carried out by Islamic State in the Greater Sahara and an al-Qaeda affiliate called Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin.
Another jihadist group, Ansaroul Islam, is active in Burkina Faso, and Boko Haram is active in countries around Lake Chad.
Has the UN mission been successful?
Despite the presence of UN peacekeepers and French troops, who led counter-terror operations, the number of terror attacks in Mali steadily increased, as did the number of Malians joining insurgent groups.
Over the past decade, more than 300 UN peacekeepers have been killed. It has been described as the deadliest peacekeeping mission in the world.
Russia and China has criticised the mission at the UN, and countries such as the UK and Sweden have refused to provide troops.
Last year, French President Emmanuel Macron said he would withdraw French forces.
He was angry that military leaders – who seized power in 2021 – delayed plans to hold democratic elections. They also invited the Russian mercenary group Wagner to provide an estimated 1,000 fighters to provide security.
At the moment it is unclear whether the recent mutiny by Wagner fighters in Russia will have a bearing on its operations in Mali.
Why does Mali want the UN peacekeepers to leave?
The UN’s mandate in Mali is due to expire on 30 June.
The UN’s Secretary General, António Guterres, had recommended extending their stay in Mali for another year.
However, Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, rejected this, saying the UN force had failed to respond effectively to security challenges.
UN commanders have complained that the Malian government has often interfered with their operations.
Mr Diop also accused the UN mission of “making serious allegations which are detrimental to peace, reconciliation and natural cohesion in Mali”.
In May, the UN released a report alleging that during an anti-jihadist operation in central Mali in March 2022, Malian army troops and foreign mercenaries killed 500 civilians.
On Friday, the United Nations Security Council voted to withdraw the peacekeepers over the next six months.
