Mali and South Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, boosting regional security, and advancing economic cooperation during a key meeting in Bamako.
Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop met with South African Ambassador Tebogo Seokolo on July 14, 2025, to discuss shared priorities including the support of the Confederation of Sahel States (ESA) and joint efforts against terrorism.
The discussions centred on deepening cooperation between the two nations, with a particular focus on expanding trade and economic growth. Malian exports to South Africa saw a remarkable increase, jumping from 250,000 rand to 12.9 million rand (approximately USD 770,000) between May 2024 and May 2025.
Meanwhile, South African imports to Mali reached USD 74.3 million in 2024, reflecting growing commercial ties. This partnership is formalised through a Joint Commission (JCC) established in 2014.
Ambassador Seokolo expressed Pretoria’s strong interest in backing the ESA and the Sahel Confederation, which are viewed as crucial steps toward Africa’s broader geopolitical repositioning. The two nations explored their complementary roles within the BRICS framework, especially in areas such as food security and rural development, signalling a strategic alignment on continental priorities.
Security concerns featured prominently in the dialogue, with both sides highlighting the urgent need to combat cross-border terrorist trafficking. Worryingly, they noted signs of “active complicity” by certain neighbouring states, posing a significant threat to regional stability.
Mali currently chairs the ESA, a bloc aimed at asserting political leadership across the Sahel region. According to the World Bank, Mali’s economy rebounded with 4% growth in 2024, largely driven by agriculture—a sector poised to benefit from strengthened bilateral cooperation.
This diplomatic engagement underscores Mali’s strategic approach to consolidating security partnerships and stimulating development, while cementing its role as a key regional actor in West Africa.
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