A call for dialogue amid rising insecurity

In a radio and television broadcast on Monday evening, Assimi Goïta reaffirmed his commitment to defending Mali’s territorial integrity and national unity, while expressing openness to dialogue. “While remaining open to dialogue and reconciliation among Malian brothers, our firm determination to defend the integrity of our territory and national unity remains intact,” the Malian head of state declared. He also promised to intensify the fight against armed jihadist groups, as Malian forces confront a surge in attacks. “In this context, the fight against insecurity and armed terrorist groups will be further strengthened,” he added.

66ÈME ANNIVERSAIRE : VŒUX DE BONNE FÊTE D’INDÉPENDANCE pic.twitter.com/4UHkt0JkjM

— Presidence Mali (@PresidenceMali) September 21, 2026

Over 100 soldiers killed in Dioura

This address comes after several attacks in recent weeks against Malian forces. The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has claimed or been accused of multiple operations against military positions. On September 10, an attack on the Dioura camp in central Mali resulted in more than 100 Malian soldiers killed, according to available information. Several dozen other soldiers were also taken prisoner. This particularly deadly attack marked a new setback for the Malian army, which has been engaged in the fight against jihadist groups for several years.

L’Adresse à la Nation du Président de la Transition, Son Excellence le Général d’Armée Assimi GOÏTA, Chef de l’État, à l’occasion du 66e anniversaire de l’indépendance du Mali.https://t.co/kkhAEefRUM

— Presidence Mali (@PresidenceMali) September 21, 2026

A tribute to soldiers and strengthened support from Russia

In his speech, Assimi Goïta paid tribute to soldiers who died in combat and praised their sacrifice in the name of defending the homeland. He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the Malian army. In this regard, he mentioned the continuation of cooperation with Russia, which has become Bamako’s main strategic partner since the gradual withdrawal of French forces and several Western partners. Mali celebrates the 66th anniversary of its independence on Tuesday, September 22. The ceremonies take place in a particularly tense security context, as jihadist groups continue to carry out attacks against security forces and seek to expand their influence in several regions of the country.