In the heart of central Mali, a high-level government delegation, led by Minister of State Ismaël Wagué—tasked with Reconciliation, Peace, and National Cohesion—arrived in Bandiagara on Monday, May 11, 2026. The visit followed a devastating terrorist assault on the villages of Kori-Kori and Gomossogou in the Bankass district on May 6, where dozens of civilians lost their lives.
The delegation arrived to offer the government’s official condolences during a solemn ceremony at the regional governor’s office. As a gesture of support, they delivered critical aid, including 25 tons of millet, 25 tons of rice, and a financial package of 20 million CFA francs to assist grieving families and affected communities.
The attack has been attributed to fighters from the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), though authorities have yet to release an official death toll. Local militia leaders, such as Youssouf Toloba of Dana Ambassagou, reported over 60 fatalities, along with numerous injuries and severe property damage. Toloba claimed the villages were deliberately targeted after refusing to sign so-called “peace agreements” with armed extremist groups.
Noël Tessougué, a senior figure in the dozo militia, warned that communities collaborating with JNIM fighters would no longer receive protection from armed groups. The statement underscores the growing tensions between local self-defense forces and Islamist militants operating in the region.
During his address, Minister Wagué reaffirmed the transitional government’s commitment to ending violence against civilians nationwide. He emphasized the need for unity, solidarity, and national cohesion to confront the escalating security challenges gripping Mali.
