The capital of Mali, Bamako, has been under siege since April 30, enforced by jihadist factions of the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM). On May 15, Amnesty International issued a strong condemnation, urging the armed group to cease actions that obstruct civilian movement and compromise their safety.
Jihadi blockade chokes Bamako’s lifelines
The prolonged blockage has severely restricted the movement of people and goods, with Amnesty International describing the situation as unbearable for residents. The international human rights body warns that the blockade violates fundamental rights, including access to food, healthcare, and safe passage.
In a scathing statement, Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty’s Regional Director, emphasized that attacks on civilian vehicles—particularly those transporting essential goods—are prohibited under international humanitarian law. He stressed that all armed factions must distinguish between combatants and non-combatants at all times.
Civilian convoys targeted amid rising tensions
On May 6, jihadists reportedly ambushed a commercial truck convoy heading from Bamako to Bougouni, carrying fruits and supplies for local businesses. The attack occurred without any military escort, contradicting claims of transporting military personnel or equipment. This incident has forced several transport companies to suspend operations to and from the besieged capital.
The blockade follows coordinated assaults on strategic military positions in Bamako on April 25 and 26, jointly carried out by JNIM and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). These attacks targeted key government installations, escalating tensions between armed groups and the ruling military junta.
Humanitarian crisis unfolds as supply chains collapse
The disruption of transport routes has crippled supply chains, leaving markets in Bamako struggling to stock essential goods. Residents face mounting hardships, with restricted access to food, medical supplies, and other necessities. Aid organizations warn of a deepening humanitarian emergency if the blockade persists.
Amid the escalating crisis, Amnesty International has reiterated its call for an immediate end to hostilities targeting civilians, urging all parties to uphold international humanitarian standards and prioritize the protection of non-combatants.
