JNIM Collects Zakat and Ransoms Amid Mali Security Collapse

Mali, February 3, 2026 - The JNIM (Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims) has reportedly been collecting zakat in several villages between Bamako and Nioro du Sahel, including Sambaga, Gory, Komo, Houlou, and Mounia. In parts of the south and center of the country, local communities are now paying monthly ransoms in addition to the annual zakat to armed groups, highlighting the ongoing extortion and control by insurgents. Observers say the military junta remains disconnected from the escalating security crisis, focused instead on consolidating presidential power, and is incapable of proposing solutions for a return to democracy.

Faits rapportés

Mali, February 3, 2026 - The JNIM (Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims) has reportedly been collecting zakat in several villages between Bamako and Nioro du Sahel, including Sambaga, Gory, Komo, Houlou, and Mounia. In parts of the south and center of the country, local communities are now paying monthly ransoms in addition to the annual zakat to armed groups, highlighting the ongoing extortion and control by insurgents. Observers say the military junta remains disconnected from the escalating security crisis, focused instead on consolidating presidential power, and is incapable of proposing solutions for a return to democracy.