Travel Disruptions Hit Holiday Plans Across Mali
Thousands of Muslims in Bamako are spending Eid away from their families as insecurity and transport disruptions continue to affect travel across Mali.
A jihadist blockade on key roads leading into the capital has forced many residents to cancel long-standing holiday trips. For many families, Tabaski, known globally as Eid al-Adha, is one of the most important yearly gatherings.
Residents who usually travel to different regions for the celebration now remain stranded in Bamako due to growing security threats.
Blockade Cuts Off Major Routes Into Capital
Since late April, fighters linked to Al-Qaeda’s Sahel branch have blocked major roads leading into Bamako.
The attacks included burning buses and freight trucks along major highways. As a result, many transport operators stopped services over safety concerns.
The fear of violence has also discouraged travellers from returning to villages and hometowns.
Bus terminals in Bamako, usually crowded before Tabaski, now show little activity.
Transport operators say fuel shortages have worsened the crisis.
A travel agency owner said the company had suspended trips because of fuel scarcity and vehicle losses.
Another transport manager said companies usually move over 50,000 passengers during the holiday week. This year, many operators have cancelled trips.
Families Cancel Long-Standing Eid Traditions
Many residents say this is the first time in decades they will celebrate Eid in Bamako.
Some families who usually travel by car or motorbike have also changed plans. Armed attacks have made major roads unsafe for private travellers.
Others who often return to villages in Segou, Sikasso, and Mopti now remain in the capital.
Although a few minibuses still enter the city, many use backroads or travel under military escort.
Livestock Shortage Pushes Sheep Prices Higher
The transport crisis has also disrupted livestock supply in Bamako.
Traders now struggle to bring sheep into the capital ahead of Tabaski, when many families perform the traditional sacrifice.
As supply drops, prices have risen sharply.
Sheep that once sold for about 75,000 CFA francs now cost as much as 300,000 CFA francs in some markets.
Traders say attacks on livestock trucks have worsened shortages.
For many households, buying a sheep has become difficult as costs rise beyond what average families can afford.
Power Cuts Deepen Daily Hardship
Bamako also faces worsening electricity and water shortages.
Frequent power outages have disrupted businesses, including tailoring shops preparing festive clothing.
Some workers say small solar systems cannot meet growing electricity demands.
Families also worry about preserving food during the Eid celebration.
Many fear meat could spoil within hours because of unstable power supply.
Authorities recently announced the arrival of hundreds of fuel tankers into Bamako. The move may ease pressure on transport and energy supply.
Still, for many residents, the chance to travel home for Eid has already disappeared.
