The Council of Ministers of Mali held its ordinary session on November 6, 2026, at the Palace of Koulouba, under the presidency of General Assimi GOITA, Transitional President and Head of State. The meeting focused on various agenda items, leading to the adoption of legislative and regulatory texts, a nomination, and several communications. These decisions aim to address pressing national issues, including budget adjustments and border management.
One of the key decisions made was the adoption of a draft decree authorizing the opening of additional budget credits amounting to 125 billion CFA francs for 2026. This move is in accordance with the Organic Law on Finance Laws, which allows for urgent budget adjustments under specific conditions. The funds will be used to support construction projects, including hospitals, and other priority initiatives.
The Council also adopted several texts related to the creation, organization, and functioning of the National Directorate of Borders. These new measures aim to enhance strategic management and coordination of border-related activities. The reorganization includes provisions for personnel and aims to address previously identified shortcomings in border management.
Furthermore, the Council of Ministers adopted a decree establishing the National Commission for Borders, expanding its missions and composition to better align with current needs and recommendations from national dialogues. This move is expected to strengthen border management and enhance collaboration among relevant stakeholders.
In terms of individual measures, the Council proceeded with a nomination: Sidiki dit Youssouf DEMBELE, a journalist and filmmaker, was appointed as Communication Advisor at the Malian Embassy in Abuja.
The Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization informed the Council about Mali's participation in the 77th Session of the Executive Committee of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Geneva. The session focused on reviewing past activities, approving budgets, and outlining future directions, with an emphasis on protecting displaced persons and enhancing international solidarity.
Additionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reported on the outcomes of the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit held in Moscow. The summit, attended by the Transitional President, focused on fostering mutually beneficial cooperation and leveraging Africa's potential. Malian ministers participated in various panels, highlighting topics of interest to Mali and the region.
Key points
- The Council of Ministers adopted a decree for opening additional budget credits of 125 billion CFA francs for 2026.
- Reorganization of the National Directorate of Borders aims to improve strategic management and coordination.
- A new decree establishes an expanded National Commission for Borders.