Mali: Inauguration of a border security center in Kourémalé
On Saturday, July 6, 2024, a new border security center was inaugurated in Kourémalé, located at the border between Mali and Guinea. This center, built on a 5-hectare area, is the result of collaboration between Mali, the European Union, and the EUCAP Sahel Mali mission, with a budget exceeding 3 billion FCFA.
The Bamako-Conakry route through Kourémalé is a crucial axis for commerce and regional mobility, used daily by many people. However, this route faces security issues and corruption. Investigations and testimonies reveal that administrative difficulties and precarious security conditions make travel challenging for many users.
The region is also threatened by terrorism. In February 2019, Guinean peacekeepers were attacked near Siby, resulting in the death of three soldiers. This tragic incident highlighted the dangers in the area and the need to reinforce security.
In addition to terrorist threats, users of the Bamako-Kourémalé-Siguiri-Kankan route frequently report harassment at border posts, where corruption and extortion are common. Highway robbers pose a constant threat, attacking travelers at night to steal their money and belongings.
The EUCAP Sahel Mali civilian mission, established in 2015, supports Malian authorities in enhancing their capabilities in border management, counter-terrorism, and combating organized crime. The mission aims to train, equip, and build security infrastructure, with a current mandate until January 2025.
This center was constructed amidst tensions between Malian transitional authorities and traditional partners, particularly Western countries. The deployment of Russian instructors by Bamako has caused tensions, as Westerners view these instructors as mercenaries from the Wagner group. Consequently, the Barkhane operation forces were withdrawn at the request of Malian authorities.
