Aguelhoc, Mali: located in the Kidal Region, a significant number of armed combatants voluntarily surrendered their weapons and equipment to the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) on April 28.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the group turned in five vehicles, machine guns, ammunition, and various other military equipment. The Malian military confirmed this development through a press release issued by the Malian press agency, AMAP.
The General Staff also conveyed their commitment to the fair treatment of the surrendered individuals and the management of the received equipment. This event marks a significant step towards peace in the region, which has seen considerable upheaval due to the activities of armed terrorist groups and criminal organizations. These groups had previously taken control of Kidal, leading to widespread displacement of the local population.
The recapture of the city by FAMa in November was a turning point, followed by ongoing efforts by the government to restore stability and encourage displaced citizens to return. The governor of the 8th administrative region, Major General Elhadji Gamou, has been actively promoting the return of the displaced populations to Kidal, emphasizing the restoration of state administration and basic social services. This initiative is supported by the Minister of State, Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, who is acting on behalf of the President of the Transition, Colonel Assimi Goïta.
During a recent handover ceremony, Major General Gamou reiterated his call for all state employees to resume their duties in the region, highlighting the necessity of their presence to ensure the effective functioning of the state and the administration. The government’s commitment to combating terrorism and rebuilding the region remains steadfast, as demonstrated by these ongoing efforts to stabilize and revitalize Kidal.