Mali travel disruptions due to road blockades near Bamako
Travelers heading to Mali’s capital Bamako are facing severe disruptions after djihadist groups enforced a blockade on major highways. The Jnim (Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims) imposed the restrictions following coordinated attacks on April 25 that targeted multiple regions across the country.
Prolonged delays and canceled trips plague travelers
In the aftermath of the attacks, multiple transport companies have suspended operations, leaving passengers stranded. Several vehicles—including buses and cargo trucks—have been set ablaze on highways leading to Bamako. While some transport firms persist in operating, many have halted services entirely, exacerbating travel chaos.
Stranded travelers recount harrowing journeys
Mody, a traveler from Mauritania, shared his ordeal after a four-day journey to reach Bamako. « We departed Nouakchott last Thursday at 7 AM and arrived at Gogui, near the border, by 11 PM, » he recounted. « Transport officials warned us the route was unsafe. We spent Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights waiting at the border. »
After initially expecting military escort, Mody’s group proceeded without it. However, upon reaching Diéma, they learned that earlier buses had been forced to turn back under threats from Jnim militants. A transport company representative confirmed that ten buses remain stranded in neighboring countries, with two incinerated over the weekend.
Week-long waits and uncertain futures
In another transport hub linking Bamako to central cities like Ségou, passengers have been waiting for nearly a week to secure tickets. Seyba, a 60-year-old traveler from Ségou, explained his predicament: « I came to pay my respects to a deceased relative, but no buses are available. I’ve checked four companies—all the same situation. If I can’t leave soon, I’ll stay with relatives in Bamako. »
The company’s manager, speaking off-record, revealed losses of five buses to arson attacks last Saturday. These vehicles were destroyed by Jnim fighters as part of their blockade strategy. Consequently, the company has temporarily suspended all routes to and from Bamako.