By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Ethiopia, July 5,2026 - African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has strongly condemned the coordinated terrorist attacks that struck several localities across northern, central and southern Mali on July 4, describing the assaults as a reminder of the persistent threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel.
In a statement issued from the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Youssouf extended condolences to the families of those killed and expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Mali following the attacks.
"The Chairperson extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and expresses his deep sympathy to all those affected by these attacks," the statement said.
He reaffirmed the African Union's full support for Mali as the country continues to confront insecurity linked to terrorist groups operating across the Sahel.
The AU warned that the latest wave of violence highlights the need for stronger regional and continental cooperation to counter terrorism and restore stability.
"These attacks are a stark reminder that terrorism and violent extremism continue to pose a serious threat to Mali, the Sahel and the African continent as a whole," Youssouf said.
He called on African governments and regional organisations to intensify collective efforts to advance peace and security while ensuring full respect for international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians caught up in conflict.
The AU Chairperson reiterated the continental body's commitment to supporting the Malian authorities and regional initiatives aimed at defeating extremist groups and promoting lasting peace.
"The African Union remains unwavering in supporting the efforts of the Malian authorities, as well as regional and continental initiatives aimed at combating terrorism and promoting lasting peace and stability in Mali and across the Sahel," the statement added.
The attacks come as Mali continues to battle insurgent groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, which have carried out deadly assaults on military installations, civilian populations and government facilities in recent years. The insecurity has also spread to neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, making the Sahel one of the world's most volatile regions.
Regional and international organisations have repeatedly warned that instability in the Sahel poses a growing security threat to the wider African continent, with extremist networks exploiting weak governance, porous borders and humanitarian crises to expand their operations.
The African Union has consistently advocated for stronger intelligence sharing, enhanced cross-border security cooperation and coordinated counterterrorism strategies among member states to address the evolving security challenges in the region.
The AU's latest statement underscores the organisation's continued commitment to working with Mali and its regional partners to combat terrorism and foster peace, stability and sustainable development across the Sahel.
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