Mali: NGOs suspend operations in Menaka

Event

A Belgian non-governmental organization (NGOs) has suspended its operations in Menaka (north) until further notice due to security concerns. On June 8, its office was ransacked and looted. Numerous other NGOs operating in the city have also since suspended their operations. It is unclear when NGO activity will resume.

Context

In November 2017, a coalition of international NGOs based in Menaka temporarily ceased their operations due to rising insecurity.

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. Additionally, the UN mission in the region, MINUSMA, is one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.

Due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevalent in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.