Mali: French authorities formally discourage travel to Kayes, Sikasso, and Ségou August 15

Event

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs expanded the "red zone" in Mali by including the towns of Kayes, Sikasso, and Ségou and formally discouraged travel to these locations as of Saturday, August 15. Only a few parts of the country and areas surrounding the capital Bamako remain classified as "orange zones". The city of Ségou is considered to be the epicenter of the crisis in Mali and Sikasso was already on the edge of the "red zone".

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.