The Malian government has launched a major operation to repatriate thousands of Africans from six nationalities who were expelled from Guinea and are currently in transit to Mali. A meeting of the Interministerial Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management (CECOGEC) was held on November 7, 2026, to discuss the humanitarian situation of the refugees. The committee was informed that 160,000 people have been registered as refugees from Guinea.

According to the government, operations are already underway to repatriate the refugees. A first convoy of 47 buses has already arrived in Burkina Faso, while a group of 50 trucks is preparing to depart. The Malian government has chartered an additional 100 trucks to evacuate the refugees. In total, 74 trucks and 21 buses have been mobilized to repatriate 15,000 people to their countries of origin.

To avoid congestion in Bamako, the Prime Minister has directed that the refugees be settled at the Kouremalé border. The goal is to organize the evacuations in an orderly manner and prevent difficult situations in the capital. The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for a precise count of Malian refugees from Guinea to ensure adapted care.

Each ministry member of the CECOGEC presented an update on their actions on the ground and future plans. The committee was also informed that a daily information bulletin will be published to keep the public informed about the evolution of the situation and planned actions. The Prime Minister praised the members of the committee for their efforts in supporting the refugees.

A field visit is planned for November 8, 2026, to assess the actions taken and identify urgent needs. The Malian government has also received support from the Croix-Rouge malienne, which has mobilized 35 million FCFA for the refugees. The repatriation efforts are part of a pan-African solidarity initiative.

The refugees are from six nationalities, including Malians, and are being repatriated to their countries of origin. The Malian government has taken steps to ensure that the refugees receive adapted care and support. The situation is being closely monitored by the government and humanitarian organizations.

The repatriation efforts are ongoing, with the goal of providing a safe and dignified return for the refugees. The Malian government is working closely with its partners, including Burkina Faso, to ensure the success of the operation. Key points: 160,000 people registered as refugees from Guinea, 15,000 people to be repatriated, 74 trucks and 21 buses mobilized for repatriation efforts.

Key points

  • 160,000 people registered as refugees from Guinea
  • 15,000 people to be repatriated
  • 74 trucks and 21 buses mobilized for repatriation efforts

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.