Mali’s government has outlined what it describes as major achievements in strengthening the country’s defense and security sectors over the past five years, citing increased investment in military infrastructure, personnel recruitment and security modernization under the transition led by President Assimi Goïta. Speaking at a public engagement in Bamako to commemorate five years of the transition, Minister Delegate for Defense, General Oumar Diarra, said the government has significantly improved the operational capacity and welfare of the Malian Armed Forces through a series of strategic investments.
According to Diarra, the government has constructed new military hospitals, barracks and housing for military personnel, established a War College to enhance officer training, acquired new military aircraft and expanded logistical and operational capabilities to support ongoing security operations across the country. Minister of Security and Civil Protection, General Daoud Aly Mohammedine, said his ministry had completed 131 infrastructure projects and recruited more than 15,000 personnel into the National Police and Civil Protection services. He added that an additional 3,000 recruits are currently undergoing training to reinforce the country’s internal security capacity. Mohammedine also highlighted the rollout of biometric passports and national identity cards for citizens of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. He said the government has also increased investment in modern security equipment, emergency response systems and civil protection services to improve public safety.
The ministers called on Malians to continue supporting the country’s defense and security forces by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that public cooperation remains essential in addressing ongoing security threats. Mali continues to face persistent attacks from jihadist groups and other armed organizations despite intensified military operations and regional security cooperation. The government says strengthening national defense institutions remains a key priority in restoring stability and protecting the country’s sovereignty.
