Shield and Alert: Sahel Bound

Mali Keeps Pressuring Algeria, Accusing it of Interference

Mali has accused Algeria of interference and supporting terrorist groups after top Algerian diplomat criticized its counter-terrorism strategy. Bamako alleges Algeria maintains ties to insurgent groups, a reference to the Toureg tribes, 

Sahel: Mali and Canadian mining firm Barrick are talking again

Mali’s junta and Canadian gold mining firm Barrick Gold went back to the negotiating table to find a compromise in their ongoing feud.  The two spent months fighting over the Loulo-Gounkoto gold mine, where the Malian authorities recently seized nearly three tons of gold to pressure the Canadian company.

Sahel: France Concludes Military Presence in Chad

France has officially ended its military presence in Chad, returning the Kossei base to the Chadian government.  This marks the end of a long-standing French military footprint in the Sahel after similar exits from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. 

French energy firm TotalEnergies Exits Mali, Sells Operations to Bénin Petro-Backed Firm

TotalEnergies has exited Mali, finalizing the sale of its operations to Coly Energy Mali, backed by Bénin Petro. While no official explanation was provided, it is likely that tensions with Mali’s ruling junta may have played a role. Sources say that persistent tax pressures and recurring labor strikes may have influenced the company’s decision.

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