The capital of Mali, Bamako, is now fully stocked with sheep in preparation for the upcoming Tabaski celebration. These animals can be seen in large numbers along major streets and open fields, marking a stark contrast to previous shortages caused by blockades.
Most of these sheep arrived in Bamako via convoys protected by the Malian military. However, several unprotected trucks transporting livestock were set ablaze by armed groups, driving up market prices for sheep.
dangerous transit from Ségou to Bamako
The 200-kilometer stretch between Ségou and Bamako, known as National Road 6, has become a high-risk corridor. Since late April, fighters from the Jnim group—affiliated with Al-Qaeda—have been targeting transport vehicles, including private cars, as part of what they describe as a “blockade on Bamako.”
military intervention to lift the blockade
In the days leading up to Tabaski, the Malian military has intensified efforts to break the blockade. Aerial strikes, daily patrols, and armed escorts for supply convoys are now routine to ensure safe passage for goods. Despite these measures, terrorist groups continue to target livestock transporters.
One shepherd from the Ségou region shared his harrowing experience upon arriving in Bamako:
« Near Zambougou, armed assailants hurled projectiles at our livestock truck. Fearing for our lives, we stopped the vehicle to evacuate passengers and animals. Within minutes, the attackers set the entire truck ablaze, along with its cargo. We had no choice but to walk several kilometers to Konobougou, and the next day, we boarded a public transport vehicle under military escort from Konobougou to Zantiguila. »
soaring sheep prices amid blockade
The ongoing attacks have significantly increased transportation costs. The price to move a sheep from rural areas to Bamako has surged from 2,000 CFA francs to as high as 5,000 or 6,000 CFA francs.
Vamory, a local resident, expressed frustration over the steep price hike:
« Last year, we could buy a sheep for 125,000 CFA francs. Now, in the Sans Fil neighborhood, the same animal costs 175,000 CFA francs. In other parts of Bamako, prices have skyrocketed to 200,000 or even 250,000 CFA francs. Clearly, the road blockades have driven these prices to unprecedented levels. We hope for stability to return soon. »
government launches discounted sheep sales
To ease the financial burden on families, the government will launch a promotional sale of sheep tomorrow, Friday, May 22, across Bamako District. Selected sites include municipal grounds in Sogoniko, the Hippodrome, Torokorobougou, Sahaba Field in Lafiabougou, and the former AS Real training ground in Badialan I. These locations will offer livestock at reduced prices to support the community.
