By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Ethiopia, 10 November 2025 - The African Union (AU) has raised alarm over the worsening security and humanitarian situation in Mali, urging swift and united international action to help the country.
AU Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said he was deeply concerned about the rising violence and instability caused by extremist groups across Mali.
He condemned recent attacks on civilians and described the situation as “unacceptable,” noting that terrorist groups have blocked key roads, disrupted supplies, and made life extremely difficult for ordinary people.
Reports indicate that al-Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has intensified attacks and imposed a blockade on Bamako, Mali’s capital, after the military government restricted fuel sales in rural areas.
The move has worsened the country’s economic crisis, leaving fuel trucks stranded and essential goods in short supply.
Youssouf also condemned the kidnapping of three Egyptian nationals by the same group and called for their “immediate and unconditional release,” describing such acts as serious violations of human rights and international law.
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He urged for a coordinated international response involving intelligence sharing, stronger cooperation, and increased support for affected Sahel countries.
“This is a time for joint global action against terrorism and violent extremism,” he emphasised, referring to the recent African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) 1304th meeting held on September 30 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The AU Chairperson reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to stand with Mali and its neighbors, pledging continued assistance to help restore peace and stability in the Sahel region.
Meanwhile, foreign governments such as France and the United States have advised their citizens to leave Mali amid growing insecurity and uncertainty.
The AU continues to call on the international community to act urgently to prevent further suffering and to support humanitarian and peace efforts across Mali and the wider Sahel.
African Union Calls for Urgent Global Action as Mali Crisis Deepens
AUC Chair Deeply Concerned About the Rising Violence
