New Travel Warning for Mali

On March 26, 2012 the US Dept. of State issued an updated travel warning for Mali. Relevant portions of the warning are quoted below.

Reliable sources on the ground reported on March 27 that BCEAO (a regional banking consortium supporting Mali banks) were closing all banks.  Some international customers were able to withdraw some funds yesterday, but indications were that cash on hand was limited at most Mali banking outlets and the ability to withdraw future funds may be in question.

There are also conflicting reports regarding flights. There are unconfirmed reports that Air France has cancelled operations to and from Mali through March 31, but that other (regional) airlines were operating but with full flights and very limited availability.

Our (reliable) sources on the ground do report that these conditions notwithstanding, things are relatively calm on the ground.

Here is the relevant text of the updated travel warning from the US Dept. of State:

“The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all travel to Mali at this time because of current political instability in the country, an active rebellion in the north, and continuing threats of attacks and kidnappings of Westerners in the north of the country.  Malian mutineers continue to control the country; however, the country’s land borders and airport have re-opened. Radio and television stations are on the air, but under the control of the mutineers.  The situation on the ground remains fluid and unpredictable.  The U.S. Department of State urges U.S. citizens in Mali to consider their own personal security and contingency plans, including temporary departure from Mali.  This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning for Mali dated March 23, 2012, to update information on current events in Mali.

Senou International Airport in Bamako is currently open for business.  U.S. citizens currently living in Mali, who are considering a temporary departure from the country in light of the current security situation, should check with commercial airlines for flight and seat availability before traveling to the airport.”