The African Tribune

Following a series of intense raids on Malian Armed Forces installations, the nation's military leader, Assimi Goita, announced on Tuesday that the government has the situation "under control." This stability is reportedly bolstered by Russian aerial assistance, which prevented insurgent groups from seizing strategic locations, including the presidential headquarters in Bamako.Despite these assurances, the security landscape in Mali remains precarious. The administration is struggling to reclaim territory from Tuareg rebels and al-Qaeda-affiliated militants, who have threatened a complete blockade of the capital city.Recommended Stories‘Very dire’: What to know about ongoing coordinated armed attacks in MaliRival armed groups join forces against the Malian state: What next?Timeline: How Ma...

Mali football federation ends tenure of Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet The reign of the "Oncle Tom" era has come to an end. The Malian Football Federation (Femafoot) has officially relieved Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet of his duties as head coach of the Mali national team. The decision was announced on a Tuesday evening, marking the conclusion of his 22-month tenure that began in August 2024. Saintfiet’s departure follows the team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and an early exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), where Mali was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Senegal. Despite these setbacks, the Femafoot acknowledged the coach’s contributions in a heartfelt statement. Femafoot praises Tom Saintfiet’s contributions Newly elected Femafoot president Mahaz...

Tom Saintfiet has formally resigned from his position leading the Mali national football team. His departure was confirmed through a letter dated Monday, April 27, which surfaced on Instagram this Wednesday. The Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT), headed by President Mahazou Cisset, released a statement on Tuesday expressing their deep appreciation for his contributions and professional conduct. Reflecting on his tenure, the 53-year-old coach stated that he fulfilled his duties with immense pride and dedication, even when facing significant obstacles. Saintfiet shared his heartfelt thanks with the Malian public for their unwavering encouragement. He also extended his appreciation to the squad, his technical team, federation officials, and state authorities. A special tribute was paid t...

Major rule changes for the 2026 World Cup following Senegal-Maroc 2025 final The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is implementing strict new measures to prevent extreme on-field disputes during the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup. This decisive action follows the controversial incidents that unfolded during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco. On January 18, 2025, in Rabat, players from Senegal walked off the pitch mid-match after a contentious refereeing decision, sparking widespread debate across the football community. In response, FIFA has introduced amendments through the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which will take effect starting the 2026 World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico ...

In a major setback for regional security, the Africa Corps—Russia’s state-backed military contingent deployed in Mali—suffered a humiliating withdrawal from the northern city of Kidal on April 26. Graphic footage shared across social media platforms revealed the mercenaries fleeing in disarray, abandoning armored vehicles and helicopters as they were outmaneuvered by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM), an Al-Qaeda affiliate, and their Tuareg rebel allies from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). The collapse came amid a surge of coordinated assaults by jihadist forces, which targeted key military positions across Mali, including the capital Bamako, the strategic town of Kati—home to the junta’s primary military base—and Gao, a former UN stronghold. At least six urban cent...

Marrakech – The Kingdom of Morocco has once again demonstrated its steadfast commitment to Mali, reaffirming its solidarity before the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) in response to the devastating terrorist and separatist attacks that struck the West African nation on Saturday. During the AU PSC session focused on Mali’s escalating crisis, Morocco’s delegation condemned in the strongest terms the coordinated assaults targeting both civilian and military targets. In a gesture of solidarity, the delegation conveyed deep compassion and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the resilient people of Mali. Morocco’s stance underscored its unwavering support for Mali’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity. It also emphasized the urgent need for c...