The Malian government has taken a significant step towards strengthening national security with the inauguration of a new military camp in Koutiala, located in the central region of the country.
The inauguration ceremony, presided over by Minister of Defense and Veterans Lieutenant General Sadio Camara, was attended by Chief of General Staff Major General Oumar Diarra and other key officials.
Spanning 700 hectares, the Koutiala military camp is strategically located in Military Region No. 8, which borders Burkina Faso. This location is crucial for border surveillance and combating cross-border threats, including terrorism, arms trafficking, and human trafficking. The region has witnessed several security incidents, including the 2017 kidnapping of Sister Gloria Cecilia Narváez and the 2022 abduction of the Italian family, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures.
The new camp will house the 83rd Motorized Infantry Regiment, significantly improving the military’s response capabilities in the region. It will also serve as a crucial training center, providing troops with the necessary skills and equipment to effectively address the evolving security challenges.
Minister Camara emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the security of all Malian citizens and protecting the nation’s territorial integrity. He stressed that the new camp represents a vital component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance security across the country.
Following the inauguration, Minister Camara met with religious and customary leaders in the region to seek their blessings for peace and stability in Mali. This engagement underscores the government’s recognition of the importance of community support and collaboration in addressing the ongoing security challenges.
MD/Sf/te/fss/abj/APA