Hardships faced by displaced people from Kouakourou in Mali

Life has taken a dramatic turn for residents of Kouakourou in central Mali. Following threats from armed groups, entire families fled their homes, leaving behind everything they owned. Now, they face an uncertain future in displacement camps where conditions remain precarious.

The harsh reality of displacement

The journey to Mopti, where many sought refuge, was not easy. Upon arrival, families were housed in a local school, a temporary solution that quickly revealed its limitations. «When we reached Mopti, we were assigned to an old school building,» shared one displaced resident. « Authorities provided essential supplies like rice, sugar, oil, and powdered milk—donated by a private individual who prefers to remain anonymous. The local government organized the distributions.»

A cramped and uncomfortable existence

Yet, life in the school is far from ideal. «Living in a school is not sustainable,» the resident continued. « Some people sleep outside in the courtyard, while others squeeze into classrooms when it rains. With over 400 people crammed into one space, privacy is nonexistent, and hygiene becomes a challenge.» Access to clean water and sanitation remains a constant struggle, adding to the daily hardships.

Loss beyond material possessions

The forced evacuation of Kouakourou has stripped families of more than just their homes. «Being forced to leave everything behind is unbearable,» another displaced person recounted. «We could only take what we were wearing. The armed groups took our phones, cutting us off from the outside world. To make matters worse, we were in the middle of preparing for the farming season. Now, we’ve lost an entire year of agricultural work—our livelihoods are shattered.»

Empty streets and broken dreams

Today, Kouakourou stands deserted, a ghost of its former self. The once-thriving community has vanished overnight, leaving behind abandoned homes and untended fields. Residents share a single, desperate hope: to return home safely. Until then, they endure the harsh realities of displacement, praying for the day they can reclaim their lives and their land.