Mali in chaos: Jihadists cut off the capital from the world!

Mali in chaos: Jihadists cut off the capital from the world!

The situation in Mali is becoming increasingly dramatic: In recent months, militant groups, particularly the Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), have noticeably increased their control over important areas in the country. The capital Bamako in particular is affected by a severe blockade, which not only affects the daily lives of citizens, but also puts pressure on economic structures, reports The Conversation.

Since September 2025, JNIM members have blocked traffic routes in southern Mali. This tactic not only causes massive supply shortages, but also has a devastating impact on the local population: schools and universities are closed, and access to medical care is severely limited. Human Rights Watch documents that there were 326 attacks on civilians between January and October 2024, resulting in 478 deaths. These continuous outbreaks of violence have meant that the security situation in Mali remains extremely tense.

A solid enemy

Marked by unrest and political upheaval, Mali has been battling various violent extremist groups for over a decade, particularly the JNIM, which is linked to al-Qaeda. This network has the ability to quickly adapt to local conditions and operates through a decentralized structure. Currently, they are strategically trying to undermine the idea of ​​state legitimacy by imposing themselves as local authorities. In Farabougou, for example, they took control and successfully excluded the Malian army. Local residents are living under jihadist conditions with a new power structure that undermines local governance and fuels conflict within the community, the African Security Analysis Center said in a recent report ( African Security Analysis ).

Although the Malian army - led by General Assimi Goita, who overthrew the democratically elected government in 2020 - describes itself as doing everything it can to fight the terrorists, the reality is different. They are often inadequately equipped and face an extremely mobile and flexible insurgent force that attacks quickly and retreats just as quickly. Their strategy includes both military offensives and the targeted attack on infrastructural elements, resulting in widespread economic disruption, as shown by the destruction of construction equipment along the main routes, reports the Wikipedia page on Mali ( Wikipedia ).

The humanitarian crisis

The humanitarian consequences of these conflicts are alarming. Large parts of the population not only feel unsafe, but their economic existence is also at risk. Whether through the widespread blockades or the violence itself, the conflicts have created economic hardship that is difficult to address. The precarious living conditions resulting from the destruction of infrastructure are straining Malian society to its core. The need for international support is more pressing than ever as Mali is devastated, both militarily and humanitarian.

The Malian government faces increasing international sanctions and growing political pressure, further complicating the situation. To resolve the blockades and protect civilians, it is crucial to find not only military but also socio-political solutions to restore trust and governance. The challenges are enormous, but the need to free Mali from this vicious circle is clear.