Stakeholders from Mali’s culture, handicrafts and tourism sectors gathered in Bamako on May 7, 2026 as part of an initiative aimed at supporting national resilience following the April 25 attacks.
The meeting, organised under the framework of the Year of Education and Culture 2026–2027, sought to strengthen social cohesion and mobilize communities around the values of unity and peaceful coexistence.
Malian Minister of Culture Mamou Daffé brought together representatives of major cultural, artisanal and tourism organisations to discuss the security situation and highlight the essential role these sectors play in promoting civic values and national unity. Participants stressed the importance of remaining vigilant, providing reliable information to the authorities and avoiding any form of stigmatisation that could weaken the social fabric.
The initiative forms part of the Year of Education and Culture 2026–2027 launched by transition president Assimi Goïta, with the objective of strengthening human capital, cultural sovereignty and national cohesion.
The gathering also followed the establishment on May 4, 2026 of the Danbé Kolosibaw mechanism. The initiative relies on a network of social mediators tasked with promoting intangible cultural heritage and supervising the patriotic vigilance units known as Sigida Kolosibaw.
These structures are designed to encourage community dialogue, prevent social tensions and promote citizen engagement around peace and coexistence.
The mobilisation comes amid the aftermath of the coordinated attacks of April 25, 2026, which struck Bamako, Kati, Gao, Mopti and several other localities across the country. The attacks caused casualties and disrupted logistics networks and economic activities.
In Timbuktu, a similar meeting organised on May 5 had already helped raise awareness among local populations, combat the spread of rumours and preserve social stability, illustrating that efforts to strengthen national cohesion are being extended across the country.
During the discussions, Minister Mamou Daffé emphasised that culture, handicrafts and tourism remain essential drivers of social resilience and human development. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting national initiatives, improving coordination among stakeholders and continuing cultural activities despite the security challenges.
Through this initiative, Mali aims to demonstrate its determination to respond to security challenges through structured actions combining civic engagement, community dialogue and the promotion of national cultural identity.
MD/te/Sf/lb/as/APA