How Mali's big bet on Russia is backfiring

Mali's military junta under Assimi Goïta turned to Russia in 2021 for help fighting a growing jihadist insurgency after forcing French and UN troops to leave. But years later, jihadist groups and Tuareg separatist rebels are gaining ground, launching major attacks and challenging government control. 

DW's Mapped Out examines how Russia's Wagner Group, later rebranded as Africa Corps, became a key ally of Mali's rulers and why the security strategy is struggling. It also looks at how long-standing problems like poverty, unemployment andclimate-related pressures continue to drive instability.

For more Mapped Out content, follow this link