Mali's Struggle with Economic Crisis and Power Cuts Four Years Post-Coup

Four years after the 2020 coup in Mali, residents face worsening economic troubles and constant power outages. The military rulers, who promised elections but postponed them indefinitely, are under scrutiny for their handling of power issues affecting daily life and businesses. Despite hardships, some remain hopeful for a brighter future.

Four years after the military ousted Mali's then-president in a 2020 coup, many residents are grappling with worsening economic conditions and relentless power outages that are crippling businesses. The coup, driven by public discontent with corrupt rulers backed by former colonial power France and economic hardships, has left many still waiting for improvements.

"The way they've handled the electricity situation is a problem. Many Malians are experiencing huge losses," Oumar Diarra, a furniture maker, told Reuters. "The government has to make an effort because we are suffering enormously." The initial coup in 2020 triggered a series of coups in the Sahel region, including in Burkina Faso and Niger, where jihadist insurgencies persist.

Mali's current military rulers, who seized power in a second coup in 2021, have reneged on their promise to hold elections in February, citing technical reasons for the indefinite postponement. Power cuts are affecting households across Mali. "If the head of the family cannot work and provide for the family, it affects everyone," said Allasana Ag Agaly, a silversmith.

The World Bank forecasts a slowdown in Mali's economic growth to 3.1% this year from 3.5% last year, with extreme poverty levels rising. About 90% of Mali's population lives in poverty. The military leaders, along with their counterparts in Niger and Burkina Faso, have expelled French and U.N. troops, seeking assistance from Russia instead.

Despite these challenges, some residents remain hopeful. "Political independence without economic independence is meaningless," said Alkady Haidara, a Bamako resident. "I just want Malians to be patient, because it's part of life. You have to go through a difficult time to have a brighter moment."

(With inputs from agencies.)