In central Mali, a large-scale repatriation is underway as thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) return to their villages in the Bankass region. This move became feasible after local communities successfully negotiated terms with the Jnim, an Al-Qaeda-affiliated entity also known as the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims.

While villagers can reclaim their homes and cultivate their lands, these returns are contingent upon strict conditions set by the jihadist groups. These mandates include the compulsory wearing of the veil for women and the complete prohibition of Western-style education within local schools.

Mandatory Dress Codes and School Closures Imposed

These stipulations encompass specific dress codes and adherence to imposed prayer rituals. Men, for instance, are now required to wear short trousers. Furthermore, republican schools have been shut down, effectively banning any form of Western curriculum, and women must strictly adhere to wearing the Islamic veil.

In exchange for these concessions, the predominantly Peul and Dogon communities are permitted to resume their vital agricultural and pastoral activities. This timing is crucial, coinciding with the onset of Mali’s rainy season, which commenced in June, enabling immediate farming efforts.

“We Returned Without Our Wives”

An educator from Bare Darsalam village, located in the Bankass circle, who wishes to remain anonymous, has finally returned home after a seven-year displacement caused by the protracted conflict.

He arrived back in his village without his wife and children. He shared his thoughts on the state of public schooling and the dress code mandates enforced by the Jnim:

“Our school was completely destroyed by armed terrorist groups when the village was displaced in 2019. They broke everything. Even if we were asked to rebuild the school immediately, we wouldn’t agree. We have resumed our daily activities following assurances provided by the Mayor of Bankass. We haven’t yet started wearing short trousers. Furthermore, we haven’t returned with our wives, so we are still uncertain about the requirement for the Islamic veil or similar directives.”

Field Cultivation Resumes

Allaye Guindo, the Mayor of Bankass urban commune, confirmed that the signing of these agreements between local communities and armed groups has facilitated a substantial return of displaced individuals.

“Thanks to the signed agreements, people are returning to all the previously abandoned localities. Among the 13 villages now welcoming their residents back are two communities in Kani Bozon and one in the rural commune of Dimbal, with the remainder being villages within the Bankass commune itself. With the current rainfall, many returnees have safely begun cultivating their fields. Everyone expresses satisfaction with the situation.”

The specific terms of these local accords stipulate that customary authorities and community leaders must align with the regulations imposed by the armed groups. The enforcement of Islamic law, or Sharia, forms the foundational principle of their cooperation with the villagers.