Mali army secures sheep convoys ahead of tabaski festival
The Malian government has ensured the safe passage of sheep into Bamako ahead of the Tabaski holiday. Livestock, once scarce due to security threats, now dot the city’s streets and markets, signaling a critical step in restoring supply chains disrupted by recent attacks.
Military escorts have become a common sight on the roads leading to the capital, protecting convoys from jihadist threats. However, unprotected shipments have faced repeated attacks, forcing some shepherds to abandon their trucks under fire. This has contributed to a sharp rise in sheep prices across the country.
Jihadist roadblocks disrupt supply chains
The National Road 6, connecting Ségou to Bamako, has become a battleground where armed groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda target transport vehicles. These attacks, branded as a “blockade on Bamako” by the militants, have paralyzed the flow of goods, leaving markets struggling to meet demand before Tabaski.
Military operations have intensified in response. Airstrikes, ground patrols, and armed escorts now accompany commercial convoys to break the blockade. Despite these measures, risks remain high, as evidenced by recent ambushes on livestock transporters.
Survivors recount harrowing journeys
A shepherd from Ségou shared his account of surviving an attack near Zambougou:
« Gunmen fired at our trailer carrying sheep. The driver stopped abruptly to protect passengers and livestock, but the attackers torched the vehicle moments later. We had no choice but to walk to Konobougou, a journey of several dozen kilometers. The next day, an army escort helped us reach Bamako safely. »
Soaring sheep prices amid insecurity
Transport costs have tripled in some regions, with fees jumping from 2,000 CFA francs to 5,000–6,000 CFA francs for deliveries to Bamako. Local vendors report that sheep prices have surged by up to 60% compared to last year, with some families now paying 250,000 CFA francs for a single animal.
A resident from the Sans Fil neighborhood expressed frustration: « Last year, we bought sheep for 125,000 CFA francs. Now, the same animal costs 200,000 to 250,000. The road blockades have made life unbearable. We pray for peace. »
Government steps in with subsidized sales
To ease the burden on citizens, authorities will launch a subsidized sheep sale across multiple locations in Bamako, including Sogoniko, the hippodrome, Torokorobougou, Sahaba de Lafiabougou, and the former AS Real grounds in Badialan I. The initiative aims to provide affordable livestock for families preparing for the festival.
