As Tabaski approaches, the Malian capital of Bamako is seeing an influx of sheep, with the animals now visible in markets and along major roads. This surge follows successful efforts by the Malian army to secure livestock transport routes, which had previously been disrupted by blockades imposed by armed groups.
Most convoys transporting sheep to Bamako are now accompanied by military escorts. However, several unprotected trucks have been targeted by jihadist fighters, leading to significant losses and driving up market prices for the animals.
Escalating threats on the Ségou-Bamako route
The 200-kilometer Ségou-Bamako highway, also known as National Road 6, has become a high-risk zone. Since late April, jihadist factions linked to Al-Qaeda have intensified their attacks on both commercial and private vehicles along this route, enforcing what they describe as a blockade on Bamako.
The Malian military has responded with intensified aerial operations, daily patrols, and armed escorts to safeguard supply chains and ensure the passage of essential goods ahead of the festival.
Challenges persist despite military efforts
Despite these measures, armed groups continue to target livestock transporters. A shepherd from the Ségou region shared his experience after arriving in Bamako:
« Near Zambougou, assailants hurled projectiles at our livestock truck, forcing the driver to stop abruptly to protect passengers and animals. Within minutes, the attackers set the vehicle ablaze, including the cargo inside. We were left with no choice but to walk several kilometers to Konobougou, and the next day, we boarded a public transport bus to Bamako, thanks to a military escort from Konobougou to Zantiguila. »
Soaring sheep prices amid supply disruptions
The ongoing attacks have driven up transportation costs for sheep from 2,000 to between 5,000 and 6,000 West African CFA francs. This price surge has directly impacted the cost of Tabaski preparations for many families.
A local resident, Vamory, expressed his concerns while shopping in the Sans Fil neighborhood:
« Last year, we could buy this sheep for 125,000 CFA francs. Now, the price here is 175,000 CFA francs. In other parts of Bamako, the same animal costs between 200,000 and 250,000 CFA francs. The road blockades have clearly driven these prices up. We pray for stability in our country. »
Government intervention to stabilize prices
In an effort to ease the financial burden on citizens, the government will launch a promotional sale of sheep across multiple sites in Bamako on Friday, May 22. Designated locations include municipal grounds in Sogoniko, the Hippodrome, Torokorobougou, the Sahaba field in Lafiabougou, and the former AS Real stadium in Badialan I. The initiative aims to offer discounted prices for the animals ahead of Tabaski.
