Malian Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, has announced ambitious plans to develop a domestic arms industry aimed at enhancing the country’s military capabilities and securing national defense. During a national address celebrating the 64th anniversary of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa), General Goïta emphasized the importance of the new facility, which will focus on assembling small arms, light tactical vehicles, and producing munitions and explosives intended for both military and civilian purposes.
The initiative comes as part of broader military reforms designed to address the evolving security challenges facing Mali, particularly in light of the ongoing insurgency and regional instability. General Goïta outlined plans to modernize the Malian Armed Forces’ doctrine, equipping them to respond effectively to current and future threats. Additionally, the president announced the establishment of Mali’s war school, which will train military personnel from across the Sahel region, including from neighboring Burkina Faso and Niger, as part of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

The announcement coincided with the 64th anniversary of the Malian army’s independence from French colonial rule, celebrated on January 20, 1961. General Goïta expressed optimism that the creation of the arms industry and the ongoing military reforms would significantly bolster the country’s defense infrastructure, contributing to greater stability and security in the Sahel region.