Mali’s Eid celebrations disrupted as jihadist blockade isolates Bamako
Muslims in Bamako are unable to travel home for Eid due to a jihadist blockade on the city’s main roads. The blockade, enforced by Al-Qaeda’s Sahel branch, has led to burned vehicles and deterred both public and private transport. The disruption has also caused shortages of sheep for the traditional Tabaski sacrifice and worsened fuel and power shortages. Many families are now forced to celebrate the major holiday away from their loved ones.
What we know
- Alpha Amadou and others from Bamako cannot return to their hometowns for Eid because of the blockade.
- Al-Qaeda’s Sahel branch has partially blocked roads, burning buses and freight trucks, which has halted most transport services.
- The blockade has led to a scarcity of sheep in Bamako, with prices soaring and many vendors unable to bring animals to the city.
- Prolonged power outages and water shortages are affecting daily life and preparations for the holiday, leaving festive outfits unfinished and food storage difficult.
- Authorities recently announced the arrival of hundreds of fuel tankers, but many residents have already given up hope of traveling for Eid.
