Mali travel disruptions rise as jihadist blockades paralyze roads

The recent wave of jihadist attacks in Mali has escalated into a severe transportation crisis, with Mali’s critical road networks facing deliberate blockades. The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) imposed these restrictions following coordinated assaults on April 25 that targeted multiple regions nationwide.

Consequences are dire for travelers and freight operators: dozens of commercial vehicles en route to Bamako were set ablaze in recent days, while many transport companies have suspended operations entirely. The situation has left both local commuters and regional transit passengers stranded, disrupting supply chains and personal travel plans.

road closures force extended detours and cancellations

On May 11, a reputable Bamako-based transport company—which services neighboring countries—witnessed firsthand the chaos unfolding at its terminals. A bus arriving from Mauritania, having departed Nouakchott a week prior, exemplified the harrowing delays travelers now endure.

Mody, a migrant traveling under a pseudonym for safety, shared his ordeal: « We left Nouakchott last Thursday at 7 a.m. and reached the border at Gogui by 11 p.m. The drivers warned us the route was unsafe. We spent Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights waiting. On Sunday, we were told a Malian military convoy would escort us. After a long wait, we moved forward without military support to Diéma. There, we learned earlier buses had all turned back under orders from JNIM jihadists. »

A company representative confirmed that nearly ten buses remain blocked across neighboring countries, with two torched on national roads over the weekend.

passengers stranded for a week or more

In another affected sector, a Bamako-based company connecting the capital to central cities like Ségou reports severe disruptions. Seyba, a 60-year-old traveler from Ségou, has been waiting nearly a week for a ticket home. « I came to offer condolences after a family loss. Every company tells the same: no buses available. The roads are dangerous. I’ve checked four others; same story. If I can’t find a ride, I’ll stay in Bamako with relatives. »

The company owner, speaking off the record, revealed that five of their buses were burned by JNIM militants over the weekend as part of the blockade enforcement. In response, the company has temporarily halted all departures to and from Bamako, adding to the mounting transport paralysis.