Four years after the military seized power in Mali, the country is grappling with a deepening economic crisis. Many residents complain of worsening economic troubles and constant power cuts that are crippling businesses. The 2020 coup, fueled by public anger towards corrupt leaders and the spreading jihadist insurgency, promised change but has yet to deliver on improving living conditions for many Malians.
“The way they’ve handled the electricity situation is a problem. Many Malians are experiencing huge losses,” said Oumar Diarra, a furniture maker. “The government has to make an effort because we are suffering enormously.” The power outages are affecting all aspects of daily life, impacting families and hindering economic activity.
The World Bank predicts that economic growth in Mali will slow to 3.1% this year from 3.5% in 2022, with extreme poverty levels on the rise. This grim outlook paints a stark reality for the majority of Malians, with about 90% living in poverty.
The coup in Mali triggered a wave of similar events across the Sahel region, including in neighboring Burkina Faso and Niger. All three countries are fighting against jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State. The military juntas in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have expelled French and United Nations troops involved in fighting Islamist insurgents and turned to Russia for support.
While the situation remains dire, some residents cling to hope, viewing the current hardship as a necessary step towards greater independence from France. “Political independence without economic independence is meaningless,” said Alkady Haidara, a resident in the capital Bamako. “I just want Malians to be patient, because it’s part of life. You have to go through a difficult time to have a brighter moment.” However, the junta’s indefinite postponement of elections and reliance on Russia have raised concerns about the future of democracy and stability in the country.
Mali’s economic and political landscape remains uncertain as the country navigates the challenges of a fragile economy, a resurgent jihadist insurgency, and the looming question of its future under military rule.
