The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have intensified efforts to safeguard trade corridors linking Mali and Senegal, following a series of counter-terrorism operations in the Kayes region and the release of six Senegalese truck drivers.
On Wednesday, the army escorted several petroleum tankers, trucks, and civilian vehicles from Senegal, ensuring their safe passage without incident.
The move comes after operations in Mousafa and Lambatara, where dozens of fighters were eliminated, a base dismantled, and several suspects arrested.
Military officials warned that armed groups are increasingly resorting to drones, improvised explosive devices, and attacks on civilians to disrupt transport along the Bamako-Kayes route.
Securing this corridor is vital, as Mali is Senegal’s top African trade partner, absorbing more than 802 billion CFA francs of Senegalese exports in 2024—over half of Dakar’s sales to the continent and 21% of its total exports.
