Pray for Mali

Mali was home to one of history’s richest rulers, Mansa Musa. His vast stores of gold and education reforms made him one of the most renowned rulers in African history. In 1324, he went on a great pilgrimage to Mecca, crossing thousands of miles of desert. He was accompanied by so many officials, servants, and camels, it looked like an entire city was following him. Mali is still one of Africa’s largest gold producers, but relies heavily on agriculture for its income. Bordered by Niger and Senegal, the Niger and Senegal rivers support fishing, irrigation, and transportation for many communities. Once ruled by France, Mali achieved independence in 1960, though independence was quickly followed by military rule and authoritarian governments.

Despite its sources of gold, Mali is one of the poorest countries in the world. Recurring droughts threaten agriculture across much of the nation. Severe security threats have devastated the country’s tourism industry. Ethnic conflict and extremist violence have displaced hundreds of thousands. Over a million people face food insecurity. Mali is also a source of and destination for human trafficking. Women and girls are subjected to commercial sexual exploitation, while young boys are forced to work in gold mines and the agricultural sector. Children, who make up almost half of the population, are often subjected to forced begging.

God is still working in Mali despite the people’s struggles. The Church, though small, has taken root in the cultures and hearts of the Malian people. Still, Islam remains the majority religion. About 90 percent of Malians identify as Muslim. Though most are largely moderate, extremist movements have gained influence in certain regions. Foreign donors, including organizations from the Middle East, have funded Islamic schools and religious institutions through international aid. Despite this, there is hope as a small but fervent Church takes shape. God’s hope prevails in Mali.