Malis

Mali is forging a new path in its quest for economic autonomy. Recently, the country began the construction of a state-of-the-art gold refinery, powered by Russian backing. This strategic initiative, championed by its military-led government, aims to enhance the nation's control over its precious natural resources. But what does this really mean for Mali and its future? The newly established refinery is set to be a significant player in Mali's economy, with the Malian government holding a majority stake of 62%.…

The Electricity Crisis in Mali: A Complex Web of Debt and Dependence Mali currently stands at a crossroads, grappling with a staggering debt of over $94 million owed to the agency responsible for managing the Manantali Dam, a crucial hydroelectric power source. This facility doesn't solely serve Mali; it also supplies electricity to neighboring Senegal and Mauritania. The implications of this financial strain are profound, and some experts have deemed it "a question of life and death" for the dam's ongoing operations.…

In a significant political development, Mali’s military leader, General Assimi Goïta, has garnered the support of influential political allies, paving the way for his declaration as president for the next five years. This action is reminiscent of the recent decisions made by leaders in similarly governed nations, such as Niger and Burkina Faso. Together, these countries form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), all under military rule, creating a landscape that raises questions about democracy in the region. Earlier this…

In a bold move that has sparked significant discussion among political stakeholders, a national conference held in Mali has recommended appointing the junta leader, Assimi Goita, as president for a five-year term. This proposal follows a series of deliberations in the capital, Bamako, where attendees engaged in robust dialogue about the future governance of the nation. This recommendation shines a light on the complexities and challenges Mali faces today. During the conference, participants proposed not only the…

A Glance at Nigeria’s Migration Dilemma In recent events, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) flagged a group of 62 individuals—comprised of 51 men and 11 women—who were detained for illegal entry and subsequently deported through proper channels. This incident sheds light on the pressing issue of irregular migration across West Africa’s vulnerable borders, underscoring the heightened scrutiny of regional movements. Mr. Tony Akuneme, the Controller of the command, shared the details in a statement issued on a Sunday in…

In recent years, the plight of children in Mali has escalated, leaving an indelible mark on their lives amid escalating violence and widespread atrocities. The ongoing conflict, fueled by various factions, has created an environment where the most vulnerable—our children—face unimaginable horrors on a day-to-day basis. What does it say about our collective humanity when the innocent are caught in the crossfire of such chaos? Reports suggest that between April 2022 and March 2024, more than 2,000 egregious violations against…

On October 31, Mali's transitional national council approved a law that criminalizes homosexuality, a move that casts a long shadow over the nation’s LGBTQI+ community. This newly minted legislation heightens the dangers of stigma, discrimination, and violence against individuals identifying as part of this community across Mali. This isn't just a recent shift; Mali's human rights landscape has dramatically declined since January. The government has rolled out harsh measures targeting opposition groups, mainstream media,…

Mali's transitional government is aware of its commitment to a fixed deadline for organizing elections to restore democracy after last year's coup, Prime Minister Choguel Maiga said on Friday. Since the overthrow of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August 2020, political factions in Mali and foreign partners have been looking at whether the military-led interim authorities will stick to a promise to hold elections within 18 months. Maiga presented the interim action plan to the government and outlined four key…

Mali's interim president Bah Ndaw on Monday appointed a 25-man authorities by which members of the navy occupy key positions, based on a decree broadcast reside on state tv. At the very least 4 key cupboard positions - protection, safety, territorial administration and nationwide reconciliation - go to colonels within the…

Bah Ndaw, a retired colonel who has been appointed Mali's interim president after last month's coup, made his first public appearance on Thursday and met with a regional mediator, AFP reporters said. Ndaw, 70, met former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan in Bamako on a mission for the 15-nation bloc ECOWAS on the eve of his inauguration. Ndaw's appointment was announced Monday by Colonel Assimi Goita, who is leading a junta of young military officers who seized power on August 18, removing President-elect Ibrahim…