Mali military secures sheep convoys ahead of Tabaski in Bamako

As Tabaski approaches, Bamako is experiencing a noticeable influx of sheep across its boulevards and football fields. This uptick in supply marks a stark contrast to previous weeks when deliveries were routinely halted by blockades enforced by the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM).

Most livestock shipments now arrive under heavy military escort, though unprotected convoys have repeatedly fallen victim to arson attacks by jihadist fighters, driving up local market prices.

Dangerous route to Ségou

Since late April, the 200-kilometer stretch between Ségou and Bamako—officially designated as National Road 6—has become a high-risk corridor for travelers. JNIM militants, aligned with Al-Qaeda, have intensified their campaign of vehicle burnings along this route, which they describe as part of their “blockade on Bamako.”

Military breaks the siege

In the lead-up to Tabaski, Malian forces have stepped up aerial strikes and instituted daily patrols to counter the blockade. Military escorts now accompany commercial convoys to ensure safe passage, yet armed groups continue to target livestock transporters.

An animal herder from the Ségou region, who arrived in Bamako this week, recounted his harrowing journey:

« Near Zambougou, jihadist fighters launched projectiles at our livestock trailer. The driver, terrified, stopped to evacuate passengers and animals. Within minutes, the attackers set the entire vehicle ablaze—along with its cargo. We were forced to walk several dozen kilometers to Konobougou, then board a public transit bus to Bamako, thanks to military escort between Konobougou and Zantiguila. »

Surge in livestock transport costs

The persistent attacks have pushed transport fees from 2,000 CFA francs in inland regions to between 5,000 and 6,000 CFA francs upon arrival in Bamako.

A local resident, Vamory, shared his frustration over the inflated prices:

« Last year, this same sheep cost 125,000 CFA francs in Sans Fil neighborhood. Now, vendors are asking 175,000 CFA francs here. In other parts of Bamako, prices have soared to 200,000 or even 250,000 CFA francs. Clearly, the road blockade has driven up costs. We can only pray for lasting stability in our country. »

Government launches discounted sales

To ease the financial burden on families preparing for Tabaski, authorities will initiate a discounted sheep sale program tomorrow, Friday, May 22, across designated sites in Bamako district. These include municipal grounds in Sogoniko, the Hippodrome, Torokorobougou, the Sahaba field in Lafiabougou, and the former AS Real ground in Badialan I.