In the heart of Bamako, displaced families from the former Faladiè market are struggling to celebrate Eid al-Adha under dire conditions after their eviction from the site. The makeshift camp they now occupy, once a bustling commercial hub, has been reduced to rubble, leaving them in a state of uncertainty as they await relocation.
The Centre amis des enfants, a small educational space within the informal camp, serves as a temporary refuge for families who fled violence in their hometowns. Among them is Aminata, a mother of four who escaped the conflict in Bankass, Bandiagara region, back in 2019. The eviction in April left her and hundreds of others without a proper place to call home.
Essentials outweigh festivities for displaced communities
Aminata reflects on the challenges her family faces during this sacred holiday. “The lack of a suitable relocation site is taking a toll on us, both environmentally and socially. Beyond healthcare, our greatest need right now is food—rice, oil, and even festive clothing for the children,” she shares, her voice heavy with concern.
Lost livelihoods cast a shadow over the celebration
Just 500 meters away, 14-year-old Fousseyni and 15-year-old Oumar watch as a butcher prepares a sheep for Tabaski. The boys, who once earned a living by transporting livestock for sale, now struggle to find work. “Last year at this time, we were busy selling sheep and delivering cattle to buyers. We made decent money. Now, we’re idle. It’s tough, but we still come here hoping to find odd jobs,” Fousseyni admits, his expression reflecting the weight of their situation.
The displaced families, numbering around 300, remain under the watchful eye of local and international humanitarian groups, including the Direction nationale du développement social, Samu Social Mali, and Unicef. These organizations continue to provide support for the children at the educational center and monitor the broader needs of the camp’s residents. However, no alternative site has been designated for their relocation, leaving their future in limbo.
