The Latest Breaking News from Mali

The number of foreigners kidnapped by jihadists in Mali has reached a record high, with at least 22 taken hostage by the al-Qaeda affiliate group JNIM in the last six months, as part of its strategy to undermine the ruling junta.

The Sahel region, south of the Sahara, is notorious for being the global epicentre of terrorism. With a combined population of 75 million people, the region has accounted for more fatalities than any other on the African continent since 2021.

Gold mining operations recently restarted at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex in western Mali after being shut down for several months. In January, the Malian government started blocking exports from the mine owned by Canada-based Barrick Mining (formerly called Barrick Gold).

Desert settlement of Chinguetti faces rising sands, dwindling tourism and insecurity due to conflict in neighbouring Mali

Mariam Cissé, who posted videos in support of ruling junta, received death threats before being abducted and killed

Mali authorities say influencer had posted videos in support nation’s military

An annual marionette festival took place in Mali despite threats from jihadi militants

Mariam Cisse, TikTok star from Mali, publicly executed by jihadists, exposing dangers faced by civilians and content creators in conflict areas.

Giant puppets paraded in Bamako for the annual puppet festival, offering a rare moment of joy despite economic and security challenges.

The president of the African Union Commission has expressed “deep concern” over the security situation in Mali and an ongoing jihadist blockade that has impacted civilians, and called for “urgent international action”. Given the situation, France has recommended its citizens leave the country as soon as possible.

The Malian city of Mopti has been plunged into darkness for weeks as a fuel blockade by jihadists tied to al-Qaeda cripples power supplies.