Mali closes livestock markets after deadly militant attack

Following a deadly attack by al-Qaida-linked militants in Bamako, Mali's government has decided to close several livestock markets associated with the Fulani ethnic group, which is often linked to these militant activities. The attack, which targeted a military training camp and the airport, resulted in undisclosed losses for government forces, raising concerns about security in the capital. The JNIM group claimed responsibility for the assault, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by jihadist groups in the region. The Fulani people, known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle, are the largest ethnic group involved in livestock trading in Mali. However, their association with militant groups has led to widespread stigmatization, as many in the government and society perceive them as complicit in jihadist activities. This perception is fueled by the fact that Fulanis are disproportionately represented in such groups, despite the reality that jihadist organizations recruit from various ethnic backgrounds. The governor of Bamako announced the closure of seven major livestock markets for “reasons of public order,” although the duration of these closures remains unclear. This decision reflects the government's attempt to address security concerns while also navigating the complex ethnic dynamics at play in Mali. The situation in Mali is part of a broader regional crisis, with the country, along with Burkina Faso and Niger, facing an escalating insurgency. The ruling juntas in these nations have shifted their security strategies, moving away from reliance on French forces to engaging Russian mercenaries, as they struggle to combat the increasing frequency of attacks by armed groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State.