Demonstration Alert – Bamako Mali – Ongoing Demonstrations on Sunday July 12, 2020
Location:
Gathering points include, but are not limited to, the following places in Bamako, Mali:
– Badalabougou, Bridges, and Monument de L’Independence
Event:
The group Mouvement du 5 Juin – Rassemblement des Forces Patriotiques is planning a demonstration at the Mosque of Imam Dicko at 1:00 p.m. on July 12. The demonstration was not approved by the Malian authorities.
Other demonstrations have since broken out on main routes covering major bridges and at Monument de L’ Independence.
There have been ongoing demonstrations in neighborhoods throughout Bamako, Mali since July 10, 2020. Recent demonstrations have turned violent, resulting in the burning of tires, clashes with the police, the blocking of bridges, the deployment of tear gas, and the use of live ammunition.
The U.S. Embassy has advised staff to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in the Badalabougou neighborhood and adjacent communities. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid all demonstration areas and stay home if possible.
American citizens are advised to:
- Avoid the area of the demonstration and stay home if possible
- Continue to exercise vigilance while in Mali
- Exercise caution if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests
- Review your personal security plans
- Keep a low profile
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Keep some form of communication with you
- Monitor local media for updates
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Bamako, Mali
+223 20 70 23 00
+223 66 75 28 60 (after-hours emergencies) - State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs – 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information for Mali.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
