Mali

Mali is a large, landlocked country in West Africa known for its rich history as the heart of ancient empires and its current standing as a major African producer of gold and lithium . As of May 2026, the country is facing a significant security crisis due to a coordinated offensive by jihadist groups like JNIM, which has led to blockades around the capital, Bamako, and multiple deadly attacks in central regions.

• Capital City : Bamako , a major regional trading center on the Niger River .
• Population : Approximately 24.5 million people (2024 estimate), with a very young demographic—nearly half are under 15.
• Official Languages : Mali recognizes 13 national languages, including Bambara (most widely spoken), Fula, and Arabic; French remains a de facto working language.
• Geography : Africa’s eighth-largest country, characterized by the Sahara Desert in the north and the fertile Sahel and savanna zones in the south.