In a significant development for Mali security, thousands of displaced residents, including many Dogons and Peuls, are making their way back to their home communities within the Bankass circle in central Mali. This return has been facilitated by localized agreements forged between various village communities and the Jnim (Groupe de soutien à l’islam et aux musulmans), a group with ties to Al Qaïda.

While these villagers are regaining access to their houses and agricultural lands, their return is contingent upon strict conditions imposed by the jihadist factions. These stipulations include the mandatory wearing of a veil for all women and the complete prohibition of Western-style education in schools, marking a profound shift in local life.

Schools closed, veil mandated

The imposed conditions extend to dress codes and religious practices. Men are now required to wear short trousers, while women must observe the mandatory veil. Furthermore, all state-run schools have been shut down, effectively banning any form of Western teaching. These new rules dictate daily life for the returning populations.

In exchange for adherence to these rules, the predominantly Peul and Dogon villagers are permitted to resume their vital agricultural and pastoral activities. This is particularly crucial as the rainy season, which commenced in Mali during June, is now underway, allowing them to cultivate their fields.

“We returned without our wives”

An educator from Bare Darsalam village, located in the Bankass circle, who prefers to remain anonymous, recounted his return after seven years of displacement due to the conflict. He made the journey back without his wife and children.

He spoke candidly about the public school and the dress code enforced by the Jnim: « Our school was destroyed by the armed terrorist groups when the village was displaced in 2019. They broke everything. Even if we were asked to rebuild the school immediately, we would not agree. We have resumed our activities after receiving guarantees from the Mayor of Bankass. We haven’t yet started wearing short trousers. We also haven’t returned with our wives, to determine if the Islamic veil or something similar is required. »

Agricultural activities restart

According to Allaye Guindo, the Mayor of the urban commune of Bankass, the signing of these local agreements between village communities and the armed groups has led to a significant influx of displaced persons returning home. This marks a notable development in Mali politics and local governance.

« Thanks to the signed agreements, people are returning to all the abandoned localities. The 13 villages welcoming their residents include two villages in Kani Bozon, one village in the rural commune of Dimbal. All the rest are villages within the commune of Bankass. It is currently raining, and many returnees have begun cultivating their fields in complete safety. Everyone is satisfied, » Mayor Guindo affirmed.

The terms of these local agreements explicitly state that customary authorities and local notables must adhere to the regulations established by the armed terrorist groups. The application of Islamic law, Sharia, forms the foundational pillar of their collaboration with the villagers, deeply impacting West Africa Mali dynamics.