Focus on Africa Can Mali's Junta withstand a jihadist blockade?
10 snips
Nov 11, 2025 Guest
Cheb Mimo (music guest) / Zouj (Adam Lennox) (music guest)
Guest
Alessandro Ardueno
Guest
David Otto
In this discussion, David Otto, a defense expert, sheds light on Mali's escalating security crisis and the impact of a jihadist blockade on daily life and military trust. Alessandro Ardueno, a security specialist, highlights the rise of modern mercenaries in Africa, revealing motivations and recruitment tactics amidst ongoing conflicts. Plus, music guests Cheb Mimo and Zouj explore the evolution of YY, a new Algerian Rai genre that resonates with the youth and reflects significant cultural movements. The blend of security insights and musical innovation makes for a captivating listen.
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Fuel Blockade Risks Mali's Stability
- Janim's fuel blockade is strangling Bamako's economy and daily life, raising prices and shortages.
- David Otto warns this undermines trust in the junta and risks wider political chaos across the Sahel.
Petrol Station Worker’s Harrowing Queue
- A petrol station worker described queuing from 11am to 8pm without food or bathroom breaks and missing work.
- He said the situation caused stations to either shut or be overwhelmed, and customers offered extra money for fuel.
Junta's Reliance On Mercenaries Weakens Legitimacy
- Mali's junta relies on Russian mercenaries after expelling UN and French forces, yet struggles to contain jihadists.
- Otto says loss of protection for supporters (like a pro-army social media activist) erodes public backing for the military government.
