A short history of Mali

Malian history started with the Empire of Ghana (3rd century AD) and went on with the Empire of Mali between the 11th and the 17th centuries, which was partitioned into many kingdoms. In 1850, the French conquest began and the history of Mali was now linked to colonisation. The name of the colony changed a couple of times (Upper Senegal, Niger and Sudan), and new capital cities were chosen: Kayes, Ségou and then Bamako.

In 1958, one year after joining the French Community, French Sudan merged with Senegal to create the Federation of Mali. In 1959, Modibo Keita was appointed President of the Malian Federation, including Sudan, Senegal, Dahomey (Benin) and Upper Volta (Burkina Faso). Divergences eventually led to a partition. On September 22nd 1960, French Sudan claimed independence and became the Republic of Mali. Modibo Keita was overthrown by a coup in 1968 and replaced by Moussa Traoré, whose military regime would last 22 years. In the early 90s, growing instability (Tuareg rebellion, social protests) led to the fall of Moussa Traoré in 1991 and to democracy.

However, since 2012, the situation of politics and public safety is particularly versatile. From January to April 2012, the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad, allied with Ansar Dine attacks Malian military camps and northern cities, threatening national unity. On March 22nd 2012, the Government was overthrown by young officers as it was said to be unable to solve the crisis in the North of the country. These events led to a military intervention led by France in January 2013. In August, presidential election were held and Ibrahim Boubacar Keita won it by 77.6%.

In June 2015, a peace agreement was signed between the Government and rebel coalitions. However, it is hard to enforce and safety is still uncertain in northern Mali.

The economic situation of Mali

During the last decade, Mali had a 4.5% growth rate. The leading sectors are primary (agriculture) and tertiary (trade, transport and public administration), each one accounting for 35 to 40% of the GDP. Industry is still developing and essentially composed of small private companies, except a few bigger groups in some fields (cotton mills, electricity and mines).

The Malian economy faced consequences of climate uncertainties, political shocks and price volatility. Economic activities were impacted by insufficient rain in 2011 and in 2013. The 2012 crisis generated significant fluctuations in domestic production, including a sharp GDP growth slowdown due to destructions in infrastructures, disrupted activities, displaced populations, ailing tourism and a drop in international assistance.

Helping Mali

Babyloan started helping Mali in October 2017 thanks to our local partner RMCR. Helping the Malian population is a priority to our social enterprise.