Crisis in Mali Situation Report - August 2026

Surge in gender-based violence (GBV) and Response Deficits: A national surge in GBV cases—up by more than 58% in the second quarter—was accompanied by a nearly ninefold increase in attacks by armed groups (588 cases) and rising intimate partner violence, with 54% of incidents occurring in the home. These escalating risks are critically compounded by severe response deficits, leaving 79 percent of safe shelter needs and 87 percent of economic empowerment support unmet.

Forced Displacements: An armed ultimatum by non-state armed groups (NSAGs) in Zouera is causing continuous population movements in the Northern Circle (Gourma Rharous, Goundam, Niafunké). 

Armed Blockades and Social Control: Ongoing blockade on Léré armed groups severely hindering access to emergency sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care, combined with targeted restrictions against women including mandatory head coverings, limited movements and extortion.

In August, UNFPA deployed 49 midwives and 2 mobile teams across eight regions, reaching 7,500 women and girls with SRH and GBV prevention, mitigation and response support. UNFPA also distributed 170 dignity and menstrual hygiene kits to women and adolescent girls.