In the ruins of what was once a bustling market, a fragile lifeline remains: the “Children’s Friend Center,” a makeshift school operating in the informal camp for displaced families in Bamako’s Faladiè district. Here, dozens of vulnerable households—forced from their homes by conflict—have taken shelter, awaiting a promised relocation that never materialized.

As Tabaski approaches, the mood is one of uncertainty and hardship. Aminata, who fled her home in Bankass in 2019 after clashes erupted in the central region of Bandiagara, is among those struggling to prepare for the celebration. She lives in the center with her four children, though it was never designed as a living space.

With heavy hearts, she describes the challenges facing displaced families ahead of the holy festival. “The lack of a proper relocation site isn’t just about shelter—it’s about dignity. We need food, medicine, and even new clothes for our children. Without these basics, how can we truly celebrate?”

Lost livelihoods weigh on displaced youth

A short walk from the camp, 14-year-old Fousseyni and 15-year-old Oumar watch as a butcher prepares a sheep for Tabaski. The boys, who once earned income helping families buy or sell livestock, now scavenge for scraps of work—disassembling the animal remains for 2,000 West African francs.

Fousseyni’s voice betrays his frustration as he reflects on the holiday. “Last year at this time, we were busy. We helped families purchase sheep and transport cattle to buyers. We earned enough to support ourselves. Now? We stand idle. It’s unbearable. But we still come here, hoping for whatever small opportunity might arise.”

While local and international aid groups like the National Directorate for Social Development, Samu Social Mali, and UNICEF continue monitoring the children’s center and the 300 families affected by the Faladiè relocation, no permanent solution has been offered. Without new housing or support, Tabaski arrives with more sorrow than joy for those displaced in Bamako.