Mali: When Algerian sneakery becomes one of the causes of insecurity in the Sahel
Algeria, once seen as a brotherly and allied country to Mali, has shown its true colors by engaging in plundering and exploitative acts regarding Mali’s oil and gas, using terrorism as a lever for its own interests. This reality came to light when Malian authorities decided to terminate the Algiers Agreement on January 25, 2023, marking a reclaiming of the city of Kidal, which was then under French military control.
The announcement of this decision by Malian authorities was immediately followed by a vehement reaction from Algeria, which firmly opposed the Malian forces’ recapture of Kidal. The reason for this opposition becomes clear when examining the benefits Algeria derived from the situation. It has been revealed that Algeria was illegally exploiting Malian oil from Kidal, with the complicity of the French and terrorist groups present in the region. This fraudulent exploitation was facilitated by the unstable situation in the area, deliberately maintained under terrorist control to ensure the continuity of this illicit trade.
The recapture of Kidal by Malian authorities, coupled with the demand for the French military to withdraw from Malian territory, exposed this illicit trade. France’s involvement in this affair, although shocking, is not surprising given the strategic and economic interests at stake. By making this courageous decision, Malian authorities have brought to light the collusion between terrorists, Algeria, and France, all united in the goal of plundering Mali’s resources.
Today, Algeria continues to advocate for the reinstatement of the Algiers Agreement, not for reasons of peace and stability, but to resume its lucrative oil exploitation activities. This insistence on reviving the agreement clearly shows that Algeria’s true motivations are rooted in the economic benefits it gains from instability in Mali.
It is imperative that the international community recognize and condemn this Algerian deceit. In its quest for sovereignty and stability, Mali must not be hindered by agreements that primarily serve the interests of its neighbors at the expense of its own people. The recapture of Kidal and the end of the Algiers Agreement should be seen as crucial steps towards true independence and sovereign management of national resources.
