Mali declares state of national disaster as floods devastate the country

In response to the escalating crisis, President Goïta convened an extraordinary cabinet meeting dedicated solely to addressing the flood situation.

During this session, officials presented a grim report detailing the extent of the damage caused by the floods since the onset of the rainy season through August 22, 2024.

A Disastrous Toll

The report reveals that Mali has experienced 122 flood incidents across 17 regions, including the capital district of Bamako.

The floods have affected 7,077 households, displacing 47,374 people, including 14,451 men, 13,576 women, and 19,347 children.

Tragically, the floods have claimed 30 lives, with 12 fatalities in Ségou, 6 in Gao, 5 in Bamako, 3 in Koutiala, and one each in Koulikoro, Kayes, San, and Kita. Additionally, 104 people have been injured.

In Bamako alone, 29 flood incidents have resulted in 5 deaths and 84 injuries.

The district also reports significant displacement, with 563 households affected, leaving 4,639 people homeless.

Gao has been identified as the hardest-hit region, with 1,570 households impacted and a total of 9,936 people displaced.

The floods have also caused widespread destruction, including the collapse of homes, lightning strikes, and violent winds in various areas.

Government Response

In the face of these overwhelming challenges, the Malian government has swiftly implemented emergency measures.

These include the establishment of institutional frameworks such as the Interministerial Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management and the Crisis Coordination and Management Center.

This center, operational since May 30, 2024, coordinates efforts during the critical period from June 1 to October 30, 2024.

These structures have enabled the government to provide financial and material assistance to those affected. Along with essential supplies, a total of 128,595,800 CFA francs has been distributed to victims.

Additionally, 903 households have been temporarily relocated to schools.

The government has also adopted a rescue plan proposed by the Minister of Security and Civil Protection.

The plan aims to “improve the quality of assistance provided to affected populations and strengthen the capacity of support structures,” according to the cabinet’s report.

However, the most significant measure taken is the declaration of a state of national disaster.

The cabinet has instructed the Minister of Economy and Finance to mobilize 4 billion CFA francs to address the aftermath of the floods, bolster the national food security stock, and provide essential aid to affected households.