Mali, one of the three Sahel countries under military rule, has come under economic siege. Al Qaeda linked jihadist militants imposed nearly two months long blockade on Bamako. This is now taking a serious toll on the economy and everyday life. Fuel and other essential supplies are not allowed into the country from neighbouring Senegal and Ivory Coast. It has triggered widespread desperate struggles. Schools were closed for two weeks and the U.S and France have issued travel warnings to their na

57K views · 1.1K reactions | A recent summit of 'The Alliance of Sahel States' has raised hopes for improved security and economic conditions for the member states of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. Al Jazeera’s Nicolas Haque reports from Mali’s capital, Bamako. | Al Jazeera English | Facebook

#FirstpostAfrica: Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have established the United Force of the Alliance of Sahel States, modelled after NATO, to combat Islamist insurgency and terrorism. Launched at an air base in Bamako, the alliance comprises 5,000 troops and will utilize combined air power, intelligence sharing, and coordinated ground operations. Commanded by Burkinabe General Daouda Traore, its headquarters is in Niamey, Niger. The alliance aims to assert control over regional security, criticizin

62K views · 2.9K reactions | Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, united as...