The UN in Mali: Here’s what you need to know
Since 2013, the United Nations have had a footprint in Mali on what has been dubbed the ‘most dangerous UN mission’. Here’s what the mission has been up to recently
The situation in Mali is complicated. From a complex social landscape to violent extremist organisations, the challenges that the west African country faces are great and at the heart of a peaceful solution, is the support of the . Building peace in Mali will help reduce the spread of violent extremism across the world.
In the coming months, the UK Armed Forces will join the 13,000 peacekeepers in Mali on the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
- The road to Mali: The mission so far
- British troops are soon deploying to Mali, meet their commanding officer
As planned and in line with our firm commitment to the UN and global security, later this year 300 military personnel will deploy to the UN mission in Mali where they will help to promote peace and help counter instability.
As they prepare on their final stretch before deploying later this year, here is what the UN’s multinational peacekeepers have been up to in Mali.
1. Water for Peace
In the vast expanse of the Malian desert where the security situation remains volatile, MINUSMA contributes to restoring peace, through stabilization and recovery projects. Working hand in hand with Malian communities the peacekeepers are helping to minimize economic and social inequalities, to promote long-term peace and stability.
Through several projects related to water and food security in the Timbuktu region, intercommunal violence is decreasing and families are regaining relative security. These projects consist of providing access to drinking water, providing support during the seed season and improving the conditions of livestock.
2. Regional markets start to flourish due to UN patrols
The market of Konna re-opened in late 2013 following violence that forced civilians to flee, devastating the local economy.
Since then, regular joint foot patrols and ‘market walks’ have been provided by United Nations Police (UNPOL) and Malian Security Forces which have helped build confidence among the local community and contribute to durable peace in the area that is better known as the new epicentre of Mali’s six-year conflict.
“In order to prevent attacks on fairgrounds and build confidence among the local community we carry out regular coordinated patrols to deter criminals. It brings a sense of hope to the people.”
— UNPOL Patrol Commander Beman Sanogo
3. Joint Patrols in Gao
United Nations Police (UNPOL) Officers from Benin serving with UN MINUSMA and Malian National Guard Officer conduct daily joint patrols in the streets of Gao.
These patrols help to ensure general security, maintain order and offer protection of civilians. They are escorted by Formed Police Unit (FPU) from the Burkina Faso Contingent.
4. Paving the way for reconciliation in central Mali
Senegalese peacekeepers conduct a large operation to secure the circle of Koro, in Mali’s central Mopti region.
Called FADEN 6, the operation conducted civil-military activities, including free medical consultations, sensitization sessions on social cohesion, human rights and justice.
5. Inauguration ceremony of the central sector of the MINUSMA Force in Mopti
The official launch of the MINUSMA Force Center sector in Mopti. This sector will allow better coordination between MINUSMA and the Malian Armed Forces for Defense and Security in Central Mali, to better protect civilians and promote the return of state authority and the rule of law in the region.
Later this year the 300-strong UK Task Group are destined for Mali and having recently completed their Mission Rehearsal Exercise, the men and women are ready to help promote peace and counter instability in the region.
To be continued…
