Authorities in Mali have extended the nighttime curfew in the Kayes region following the July 1, 2025, armed attacks that struck Kayes City and six surrounding localities, including Sandaré, Nioro-du-Sahel, Gogui, Diboli, Niono, and Molodo.
The initial restriction, imposed by Governor Moussa Soumaré from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. for 30 days, was aimed at limiting movement after simultaneous assaults that left more than 80 attackers dead and a large cache of weapons seized by Malian forces.
The measure, which was later adjusted to midnight until 5 a.m., has now been extended until September 30, 2025, with exemptions only for security and medical vehicles.
The curfew affects over 813,000 residents in the region, which had previously been less exposed to violence compared to central and northern Mali.
According to the UNHCR, Kayes recorded 101 security incidents and 222 civilian deaths in the first half of 2025, highlighting the growing instability in this strategic area along Mali’s western borders with Senegal and Mauritania.
Regional authorities say the continued restrictions are necessary to counter persistent threats, calling for vigilance and cooperation from the population to prevent further escalation of violence.
