For decades, Mali and the wider Sahel region have been plagued by persistent violence, insurgencies, and complex security challenges. Rooted in long-standing political grievances, ethnic tensions, economic hardships, and the recent rise of transnational extremist groups, Mali’s conflict landscape has defied easy solutions. However, amidst these difficulties, there is a growing recognition—both within Mali and internationally—that the way forward requires a shift from purely military approaches to a more nuanced, inclusive, and multi-dimensional strategy. This emerging vision holds promise for lasting peace, security, and development in Mali.
The Complex Roots of Mali’s Security Challenges
Since gaining independence, Mali has grappled with deep ethnic and regional divisions, particularly involving the Tuareg population of the north. These divisions have fueled cycles of rebellion, political instability, and governance vacuums. Poor infrastructure, limited access to education and health care, and a fragile economy have further exacerbated grievances.
In recent decades, the security threat escalated with the infiltration of jihadist extremist groups—branches and affiliates of Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, including Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP). These groups have capitalized on local discontent and porous borders to establish footholds, challenging both national authority and regional stability.
Yet, framing Mali’s predicament solely as a counterterrorism issue oversimplifies the conflict. The groups involved are not just terror cells but also insurgents deeply embedded in local communities through social programs, governance, and tribal alliances. Therefore, counterterrorism efforts must integrate counterinsurgency tactics that address underlying political and social factors.
Moving Beyond Conventional Military Tactics
Historically, Mali’s government has emphasized traditional military action—targeting high-value extremist leaders and conducting large-scale operations. While such measures have occasionally disrupted terrorist networks, they have failed to dismantle the insurgents’ broader influence.
Increasingly, security experts advocate for a diversified approach that combines precise military pressure with community engagement, intelligence cooperation, and socio-economic development. Mali’s vast and difficult terrain, coupled with limited resources, necessitates agile, smaller units capable of countering guerrilla tactics, supported by improved intelligence gathering.
Crucially, the Malian security forces have begun adopting such reforms. There is a growing focus on strengthening local intelligence networks by involving community leaders, educators, and religious figures to distinguish militants from civilians—thereby minimizing collateral damage and building trust.
Strengthening Local Governance and Community Trust
One of the key obstacles in Mali has been the erosion of legitimate state authority, especially in the north, where jihadist groups have filled governance voids. Groups like JNIM have extended their influence not just through violence but also by providing basic services such as literacy programs and local dispute resolution—functions traditionally expected from government.
Recognizing this, Mali’s government is increasing investment in rebuilding infrastructure, schools, healthcare facilities, and renewable energy projects in underserved areas. These efforts aim to restore public confidence and offer alternatives to extremist governance.
Significant progress is being made in engaging the Tuareg and other local communities. Government outreach programs are fostering dialogue with tribal elders and civil society actors to create partnerships against violent extremism. By empowering local stakeholders, the state hopes to undercut insurgents’ influence and promote sustainable peace.
Regional and International Cooperation: New Alignments and Opportunities
Mali’s security challenges are transnational in nature, transcending borders with neighboring countries. Regional cooperation is therefore indispensable. Although political upheavals in Mali—most notably the coups of 2020 and 2021—have disrupted some multilateral efforts, new avenues are emerging.
The dissolution of the original G5 Sahel joint task force was a setback. Yet, fresh alliances such as the Alliance of Sahel States—which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—signal a renewed commitment to regional security and economic collaboration. These alliances aim to coordinate counterterrorism operations, improve border control, and address organized crime networks financing extremist groups.
On the international front, Mali has undergone shifts in partnerships. France, once the leading external military actor, withdrew its forces in response to political disagreements. This vacuum has been partially filled by Russia, which through its Africa Corps and other channels, provides training and support to Malian forces. Unlike the more autonomous Wagner Group, the Africa Corps operates under closer coordination with Malian authorities, emphasizing capacity building over direct combat roles.
This recalibration allows Mali greater sovereignty over its security strategies and opens avenues for diversified international support beyond traditional Western partners.
Harnessing Mali’s Natural Resources for Development
Northern Mali is rich in natural resources, including gold, lithium, and uranium. Historically, control over these assets has been contested between the government and insurgent groups, often fueling conflict.
Recently, government forces, supported by regional and international partners, have regained access to several mining areas. The state’s formal agreements with foreign partners to secure and manage these resources represent a critical opportunity to generate revenue for reinvestment into public services and infrastructure.
Responsible resource management is key to ensuring that mining benefits contribute to local development and do not exacerbate tensions. By channeling mining revenues into education, healthcare, and economic diversification, Mali can tackle the root causes of insecurity and offer youth viable alternatives to joining armed groups.
Empowering Women and Youth: The Pillars of Sustainable Peace
Sustainable peace in Mali hinges on inclusive development. Women and youth, who constitute the majority of the population, have traditionally been marginalized from political and economic spheres. However, there is growing recognition that their empowerment is vital to countering violent extremism.
Efforts to improve female education and health, promote women’s leadership in community decision-making, and create economic opportunities are gaining momentum. Non-governmental organizations and government programs provide vocational training, microfinance, and entrepreneurship support targeting young people, reducing unemployment and disengagement.
Such social investments help build resilient communities less susceptible to radicalization and violence.
Looking Ahead: A Holistic and Hopeful Vision
While challenges persist—ranging from security threats and political instability to socio-economic deficits—the evolving approach in Mali signals hope. The government, in partnership with regional actors and international supporters, is embracing a multifaceted strategy that blends military, political, social, and economic tools.
This comprehensive approach recognizes that defeating violent extremism is not solely a matter of force but also of winning hearts and minds. Building trust between the state and its citizens, investing in human capital, fostering regional unity, and managing resources responsibly are all essential components.
The international community is increasingly aligned with this view, shifting towards support models that prioritize local ownership, capacity building, and civil engagement.
Conclusion: Mali’s Journey Toward Peace and Stability
Mali’s security and development trajectory is complex and fraught with obstacles. However, the country’s growing commitment to integrated counterterrorism and development strategies offers a promising pathway forward. By expanding beyond narrow military tactics to embrace community involvement, regional cooperation, and socio-economic upliftment, Mali can gradually restore peace and lay the foundation for prosperity.
This positive momentum in Mali and the wider Sahel could serve as a blueprint for other conflict-affected regions grappling with similar challenges. The future hinges on sustained political will, inclusive governance, and meaningful international partnerships. If nurtured carefully, Mali’s journey may well become a beacon of resilience and hope in West Africa.
