Mali, a country in West Africa, has been facing a deep security crisis for several years. To properly understand what is happening today, it is important to go back to the root of the problem.
The current crisis largely originates from the Tuareg rebellion of 2012, led mainly by armed Tuareg groups demanding greater autonomy, or even independence, for northern Mali.
This rebellion quickly weakened the Malian state in those regions. More importantly, it opened the door to jihadist groups that were already present or expanding in the Sahel.
Very quickly, these groups overtook the Tuareg movements and imposed their control over several major cities in the North.
Among these groups are Ansar Dine and JNIM (a coalition of several groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda).
Over the years, complex alliances have formed between some local armed groups and these jihadist organizations, making the situation even more difficult to control. The crisis escalated significantly in 2012, when the NMLA (National Movement for the Liberation of the North) became involved in dynamics that allowed terrorist armed groups to take control of major northern cities (Kidal, Gao, and Timbuktu), imposing Sharia law.
Fortunately, Mali, with the support of its partners, particularly France, regained control of these cities in 2013.
Since then, despite diplomatic and military efforts, the threat has never completely disappeared. It has gradually spread to the central regions and now affects the entire country.
What Happened on April 25, 2026
On April 25, 2026, a series of coordinated attacks were carried out simultaneously around 5:00 a.m. in several major cities:
- Kidal (North)
- Gao (North)
- Sévaré / Mopti (Center)
- Kati (South, a strategic military area)
- Bamako (the capital)
From April 26 to Sunday, May 3, several villages, communes, and towns were also attacked in both the North and the South of the country.
In our region, the town of Rharous was attacked on Wednesday, April 29, and Friday, May 1, 2026, resulting in injuries and deaths among civilians, military personnel, and attackers.
These attacks are particularly serious for two reasons:
First, their coordination—striking multiple cities at the same time shows a high level of organization.
Second, the choice of targets—even areas considered secure, such as Bamako and Kati, were affected.
This means that the threat is no longer limited to remote regions, but concerns the entire country, with the aim of turning Mali into a state governed by Sharia law.
Why Is This So Concerning?
This situation is alarming because Mali has come close to a crisis comparable to, or even more widespread than, that of 2012. This time, the entire territory is under threat, not just the North. Our defence and security forces are on high alert and have foiled several attacks since April 25 up to now. For those outside Mali, it is important to understand that this situation can have serious consequences:
1. Widespread instability
If these attacks continue, some areas could become very difficult to control. People are living in fear, and this weakens social cohesion.
2. Economic and social crisis
- Suspension of income-generating activities outside cities
- Population displacement toward major urban centers
- Worsening living conditions
Our major concern is that the country could fall back into a prolonged period of insecurity if strong measures are not taken by the transitional authorities and their partners.
Impact on the Church
In this context, the Church is also affected, both directly and indirectly.
As previously mentioned, our community is already experiencing immediate consequences:
- Cancellation of some evangelistic activities outside the church
- Decrease in attendance at worship services and weekly meetings (Bible studies and prayer meetings), due to fear of attacks
- Some families are considering relocating to southern Mali in search of safer areas
Long-term risks include:
- Isolation of Christians, especially in high-risk areas such as northern Mali
- Hindrance to evangelism in unreached areas
- Financial weakening of the Church due to reduced human resources and support
In some northern regions, Christians already live under difficult conditions. A worsening of the crisis could make their situation even more challenging.
Conclusion and Call to Prayer
Finally, a major catastrophe was narrowly avoided in our country, and we express our gratitude to God: “If the Lord had not been on our side…” (Psalm 124:1)
We believe that God has answered prayers and prevented an even more dramatic situation in Mali.
We call on our brothers and sisters in Christ, wherever they are around the world, to intercede for Mali, keeping in mind the advancement of the Gospel. Despite everything, the light of Christ continues to shine through His Church.
May God protect Mali and strengthen His Church.