As Tabaski approaches, Bamako residents have noticed a marked improvement in sheep supplies across the capital. Herds of animals can now be seen lining boulevards and football pitches, a stark contrast to recent shortages caused by militant blockades.
The Malian Armed Forces have played a crucial role in this turnaround by providing military escorts for livestock convoys heading to the capital. However, the security situation remains volatile, with several unprotected trucks targeted by jihadist fighters, driving up market prices for sheep.
Ségou-Bamako route remains a high-risk corridor
The 200-kilometer National Road 6 connecting Ségou to Bamako has become particularly dangerous since late April. Jihadist groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda, specifically the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), have intensified attacks on both commercial and private vehicles along this route as part of their self-proclaimed blockade of Bamako.
Military operations intensify ahead of religious festival
In the lead-up to Tabaski, the Malian army has significantly stepped up its operations against the blockade. Daily aerial strikes, combined with armed patrols and convoy escorts, aim to secure key supply routes and restore normalcy. Despite these efforts, terrorist groups continue to target sheep transport vehicles.
A livestock trader from the Ségou region shared his harrowing experience:
« Near Zambougou, jihadist fighters launched projectiles at our cattle trailer carrying sheep. The terrified driver stopped to evacuate passengers and animals. Moments later, the attackers set the entire vehicle ablaze, including the luggage inside. We were forced to walk several dozen kilometers to Konobougou, then took a bus to Bamako the next day—thanks to the army escort between Konobougou and Zantiguila. »
Soaring sheep prices amid blockade
The persistent attacks have driven up transport costs from 2,000 to 5,000–6,000 CFA francs. Local traders report that sheep prices in Bamako have skyrocketed due to the blockade. A family head in the Sans Fil neighborhood noted:
« Last year, we could buy this sheep for 125,000 CFA francs. This year, the same animal costs 175,000 CFA francs here in Sans Fil. In other parts of Bamako, prices reach 200,000 to 250,000 CFA francs. The road blockade has clearly driven these prices up. We pray for stability. »
Government intervenes with discounted sheep sales
To ease the financial burden on families ahead of Tabaski, the government has announced a promotional sale of sheep in Bamako. Starting Friday, May 22, discounted livestock will be available at key municipal sites, including Sogoniko grounds, the Hippodrome, Torokorobougou, Sahaba field in Lafiabougou, and the former AS Real ground in Badialan I.
