On November 4, 2026, Burkina Faso's Security Minister, Commissioner Mahamadou Sana, led a delegation to Mali to discuss the situation of Burkinabe gold miners who were recently deported from Guinea. The visit was prompted by the arrival of several young Burkinabe miners on Malian territory. Minister Sana was received by his Malian counterpart, General Daoud Aly Mohammedine.

The primary objective of Minister Sana's visit was to inquire about the situation of the deported miners and explore ways to enhance their care and facilitate their return to Burkina Faso. The visit was mandated by President Ibrahim Traore, who expressed concern about the situation of these nationals. The two ministers discussed arrangements to ensure the miners' assistance and organize their safe return to their families.

During the visit, Minister Sana commended the hospitality of the Malian people and expressed gratitude to the Malian government for providing assistance to the deported miners. He assured that Burkinabe authorities, in collaboration with their Malian counterparts, are working to provide necessary assistance and facilitate the miners' return. This cooperation reflects the commitment of both countries to solidarity and mutual assistance.

The deported miners were received in Mali after being expelled from Guinea. The situation highlights the challenges faced by migrants in the region. Minister Sana's visit demonstrates the efforts of Burkinabe authorities to address the issue and provide support to their nationals.

The visit also underscores the strong relationship between Burkina Faso and Mali, both members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The two countries have a history of cooperation on security and migration issues. The AES aims to promote regional cooperation and stability in the Sahel region.

General Daoud Aly Mohammedine, the Malian Security Minister, hosted Minister Sana and his delegation. The Malian government has been working to provide assistance to the deported miners. The two ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation on migration and security issues.

The cooperation between Burkina Faso and Mali on this issue demonstrates their commitment to regional solidarity and mutual assistance. The visit by Minister Sana highlights the efforts of Burkinabe authorities to address the situation of their nationals and provide support to those in need.

Key points

  • Burkina Faso's Security Minister Mahamadou Sana visited Mali to discuss the repatriation of Burkinabe gold miners deported from Guinea.
  • The visit aimed to enhance the care and facilitate the return of the deported miners to Burkina Faso.
  • The cooperation between Burkina Faso and Mali reflects their commitment to regional solidarity and mutual assistance.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.