Mali: The Kayes region, which borders Senegal and is crucial to Mali’s economy, had largely been spared from the violence perpetrated by armed groups that has plagued the country for decades. However, this changed last week when armed men launched a series of coordinated attacks on military sites in various Malian towns, prompting the armed forces to respond with a counteroffensive that reportedly resulted in the deaths of 80 fighters. The increase in violent confrontations between armed groups and the Malian army—supported by Russian paramilitaries known as the Africa Corps—occurs amid uncertainty regarding the country’s political future, as experts suggest that the military-led government appears intent on extending its rule indefinitely.
- Lord, we pray for the safety of civilians and foreigners caught in the rising violence in Mali. May peace prevail in the region, and may those in positions of power work towards resolution rather than conflict (The Holy Bible, Psalm 29:11).
- Lord, we pray for clarity and stability in Mali’s political situation, that leaders would seek the well-being of their nation and work towards lasting solutions that prioritize the safety and prosperity of all citizens (The Holy Bible, Jeremiah 29:11).
News Source: Al Jazeera
Image Source: Canva