The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Mali has soared from 330,713 in June to 378,363 in September 2024, marking an increase of 47,650 individuals within three months, according to a report by the National Directorate of Social Development in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The report highlights that 58% of the displaced are vulnerable populations, including women and children, as the country grapples with ongoing insecurity and natural disasters.
Armed violence in the central and northern regions, coupled with clashes between government forces and non-state armed groups, has been the primary driver of this displacement.
Intercommunal tensions in regions such as Mopti and Gao have further fueled the crisis, while flooding during the same period affected 17,772 people across Ségou, Gao, Bamako, and Koulikoro.
The regions hardest hit by displacement include Ménaka, with 74,216 displaced persons, Mopti with 65,240, and Gao with 54,021—together accounting for more than half of the displaced population.
The report emphasizes the precarious living conditions faced by IDPs, noting that women and children under 18 make up the majority of those affected.
Despite ongoing humanitarian assistance, critical gaps remain, with food identified as the top priority for 95% of displacement sites.
Shelter, clean water, and medical care are also urgently needed.
Health challenges persist in these camps, with diseases like malaria and diarrhea posing serious threats due to poor sanitary conditions.
The findings, based on data collected from 132 sites primarily in northern and central Mali, underscore the severity of the humanitarian crisis.
Experts are calling for immediate and coordinated action to address the growing needs of displaced populations and mitigate the risks posed by escalating violence and climate-related disasters.
