Mali

Introduction to Mali

The Republic of Mali (République du Mali) is a landlocked nation in West Africa. It is the second largest country among West African nations. It borders Algeria on the north, Niger on the east, Burkina Faso and the Côte d'Ivoire on the south, Guinea on the south-west, and Senegal and Mauritania on the west. Its straight borders on the north stretch into the centre of the Sahara desert, while the country's south, where the majority of inhabitants live, features the Niger and Senegal rivers. Formerly French Sudan, the country is named after the Empire of Mali.

Mali's constitution provides for a multi-party democracy, with the only restriction being a prohibition against parties based on ethnic, religious, regional, or gender lines. The National Assembly is the sole legislative arm of the government. It currently consists of 147 members. Representation is apportioned according to the population of administrative districts. The government has a 5 year term.

Mali is landlocked and has a subtropical to arid climate. It is mostly flat, rising to rolling northern plains covered by sand, with savanna around the Niger River in the south. The hills of the Air Massif and Djado Plateau lie in the northeast. Most of the country lies in the Sahara Desert, which produces a hot, dust-laden harmattan haze common during dry seasons and leads to recurring droughts. The nation has considerable natural resources, with gold, uranium, phosphates, kaolin, salt and limestone being most widely exploited.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Mali

You are advised against non-essential travel to areas north of Tombouctou, Gao and Kidal due to kidnappings in 2003 and the presence of armed Islamic groups.

Mali has tightened its security measures at the border with Côte d'Ivoire due to the ongoing instability in that country.

Banditry and carjackings occur in and around Tombouctou and the northeast; four-wheel-drive vehicles are targeted. Should you choose to travel to the north of Tombouctou, the western border area with Mauritania, or the eastern border with Niger and Algeria, you should consult the local authorities to determine if a military escort is required. Air travel to the northern regions of Mali is preferable to overland travel due to security threats.

Petty crime occurs. Pickpockets are active on trains, particularly at night. Panhandlers are common. Canadians should be careful of scam artists at the airport. Travellers, particularly women, have been harassed in public places. Travel in groups, remain alert, ensure your personal belongings and your travel documents are secure, and avoid poorly lit areas after dark. Corruption is prevalent. Police may stop motorists and request payments. Food products are sometimes sold past their expiry date. Higher prices may be charged for merchandise bought in markets.

Demonstrations could occur but remain rare. Canadians should exercise caution, monitor local news reports, and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.