Commander of AES Unified Force Receives Audience with President Assimi Goïta

Koulouba, January 29, 2026 - The President of the Transition and Head of State, General Assimi Goïta, received Brigadier General Daouda Traoré, Commander of the AES Unified Force (FU-AES), in an official audience on Thursday, January 29, 2026. During the meeting, Brigadier General Traoré expressed gratitude to the President for the trust placed in him and presented a detailed report on the preparations for the Unified Force, which comprises 6,000 personnel. He also highlighted efforts to establish this new unit, aimed at strengthening security and stability in the Sahel. The President of the Transition commended the progress made in the formation of the force and provided guidance to ensure the successful achievement of its objectives. Conclusion The period from January 18 to February 1, 2026, underscores a Mali navigating a complex duality of proactive diplomacy and intensifying internal security threats. While the Malian government has successfully strengthened strategic international partnerships-notably with China to advance infrastructure and energy projects, and with the WTO to advocate for the national cotton sector-the domestic landscape remains highly volatile. The security situation is marked by a significant escalation in insurgent activity and mounting human rights concerns: Insurgent Expansion: The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) and Islamic State in the Sahel (IS-Sahel) have demonstrated increased operational capacity, seizing military posts near key hubs such as Sikasso and Koulikoro. A recent ambush on the Diboli-Kayes axis resulted in the destruction of approximately 50 fuel tankers, exacerbating the national energy crisis. Military Response: The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) are increasingly pivoting toward air power and AI-powered weaponry to counter these threats, supported by the operationalization of the 6,000-person AES Unified Force, aimed at stabilizing the broader Sahel region. Civilian Impact: Amidst ongoing fighting, troubling reports have surfaced of civilian abuses by joint patrols of the army and Russian Africa Corps in Kidal and Mopti. Concurrently, political tensions persist, exemplified by the detention of figures like Moussa Mara and Choguel Maïga. Ultimately, Mali stands at a critical juncture. The successful realization of the “Mali 2063” strategic vision and the tangible benefits of its new diplomatic alliances hinge on the government’s ability to restore security along vital trade routes and foster national reconciliation, all while confronting persistent extremist violence and growing domestic opposition. By Maïga Sidi Bonkana (Boukari Zankey Sidi) Jeff Buleli