Mali travel disruptions due to jihadist road blockades

Travelers in Mali are facing severe disruptions as key roads leading to Bamako remain blocked following a recent declaration by the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM). The blockade, imposed after attacks on April 25 that targeted multiple regions, has left transportation networks in chaos and stranded passengers across the country.

Impact on transportation and travelers

The blockade has taken a heavy toll on both trucking companies and individual travelers. Several transport vehicles destined for Bamako were set ablaze last week by jihadists in retaliation for recent security operations. While some transport companies continue operating despite the risks, many have suspended services entirely, leaving passengers stranded.

Delayed journeys and canceled trips

On May 11, a reputable transport company in Bamako received a bus arriving from Mauritania after a four-day journey. Mody, a Malian migrant traveling to celebrate Eid al-Kabir on May 27, shared his harrowing experience:

« We left Nouakchott last Thursday at 7 AM and arrived at the border in Gogui by 11 PM. The drivers warned us the route was dangerous, so we spent Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights waiting. Sunday morning, we were told a Malian military convoy would escort us. After a long wait, we departed without military protection to reach Diéma. There, we learned that earlier buses had all turned back on orders from JNIM jihadists. »

A company representative confirmed that nearly ten buses remain stranded in neighboring countries, with two set on fire over the weekend on national highways.

Passengers stranded for weeks

In another incident, passengers traveling from Bamako to Ségou, a central Malian city, have been waiting for nearly a week for available transport. Seyba, a 60-year-old from Ségou, explained:

« I came to offer my condolences after a relative’s passing, but no buses are available. The roads are deemed too dangerous. I’ve checked four other companies with the same result. If I can’t find a vehicle to return, I’ll stay with relatives in Bamako until conditions improve. »

The company owner, speaking off-record, revealed that five buses were burned by JNIM militants last Saturday, enforcing the blockade on Bamako. As a precaution, the company has temporarily suspended all routes to and from the capital.

Ongoing travel restrictions in Mali

These disruptions highlight the severe impact of militant blockades on Mali’s transportation infrastructure. While some routes remain operational, the persistent threats have forced many transport companies to halt services, leaving travelers uncertain about their plans. The situation underscores the challenges faced by both locals and migrants navigating the country amid ongoing security threats.