Mali’s junta announced on Monday a ban on the activities of all NGOs funded or supported by France, including humanitarian groups. The move comes amid a worsening row between Paris and Bamako, with the junta accusing France of meddling in Mali’s internal affairs.
This latest development is likely to further escalate tensions between the two countries, and could have a devastating effect on the already fragile humanitarian situation in Mali. Many NGOs working in the country rely on French funding, and it is unclear how they will be able to continue their work if the ban is enforced.
The junta has given no indication of how long the ban will be in place, but it is sure to add to the deteriorating relations between France and Mali.
In a statement on social media, West African nation’s interim Prime Minister Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga justified the move to halt development aid for Mali, calling it a response to France’s recent decision. He asserted that the move was necessary in order to protect the country’s sovereignty and dignity.
Colonel Maiga’s statement comes after France’s announcement that it would be suspending development aid to Mali. This is due to the government’s failure to meet certain conditions, including the holding of free and fair elections. Mali has been in a state of political turmoil since a military coup in August 2020. The coup leaders have so far failed to restore stability or bring about democratic reform.
France is one of Mali’s largest donors and has been a close partner of the country for many years. France has provided significant financial and military support to Mali, and has played a key role in helping to stabilise the country. France has also been a major contributor to the United Nations Peacekeeping force in Mali (MINUSMA), which has been deployed since 2013.
France pulled out of anti-jihadist forces in Mali last week after accusing the Malian government of using paramilitaries from the Russian group Wagner. The French Foreign Ministry said the decision was made three months after finalising the withdrawal of French forces from the country.
France had been providing support to Malian forces in their fight against jihadist groups operating in the country. This decision by France is likely to hinder the efforts of the Malian government to combat jihadist groups.
The Bamako government has denied allegations that Russian military forces are operating in the country. They have acknowledged only the presence of a small number of “instructors” from Russia. However, eyewitness reports and video footage appear to contradict these claims. There is growing evidence that a significant number of Russian military personnel are indeed present in Bamako, and that they are playing an active role in the conflict.
In a statement released to the public, Maiga spoke out against what he called the “fanciful allegations” being made against his country. He accused those making the allegations of trying to destabilise and isolate Mali through deception and manipulation.
Maiga insisted that Mali was committed to resolving the conflict in the region and called on all parties to return to the negotiating table. He also called on the international community to continue to support Mali in its efforts to achieve peace.
The transitional government of Mali has Bans all activities of NGOs operating in Mali with any France funding, including in the humanitarian field. The ban is effective immediately. This was done in response to the growing anti-French sentiment in Mali.
France is one of the main supporters of the transitional government, and many people are upset with the slow progress made since the government was put in place. France has been providing support to NGOs in Mali for many years, and this decision will impact many organisations that provide vital services to the people of Mali.
France’s commitment to maintaining humanitarian aid and financing for “civil society organisations” in Mali is significant. This pledge indicates that France recognizes the importance of helping those in need and supporting local groups working to improve the country. The continued support from France will be crucial in Mali’s recovery efforts.