Mali: Protests in Bamako and Mopti July 10

Event

Members of the “Let’s save the Mopti Region” group have called for protests to take place on Tuesday, July 10, throughout the Mopti region as well as in the national capital Bamako to denounce rising insecurity in the central region. In Bamako, the march will reportedly begin at 16:00 (local time) at the Rond-Point de l’Indépendance (roundabout) and end at the Bourse du Travail building. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near protest sites.

Context

Intermittent clashes have erupted in central Mali since the beginning of 2016 between members of the Fulani and Bambara communities. The conflict between the two ethnic groups is partially over land use, as the Fulani are largely herders and the Bambara are largely farmers. However, in recent months, Fulani groups have accused Bambara militias of illegally targeting Fulani civilians under the guise of anti-terrorism operations.

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds. France maintains approximately 4000 troops stationed throughout the Sahel, in addition to the presence of local military troops.

Advice

Individuals in Bamako and the Mopti region are advised to monitor the situation and avoid all political demonstrations as a precaution. The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.