Insecurity forces school closures in Mali and Benin

Insecurity and terrorist threats are forcing the closure of numerous schools across parts of Mali and Benin, disrupting education for thousands of children.

In Mali, hundreds of schools remain closed in the South, Center, and North due to ongoing instability. In regions such as Ségou, Bankass, and Banamba, armed attacks have forced families to relocate children to other areas to ensure their safety. While some progress has been made in northern regions like Gao and Goundam through community and authority efforts, many institutions remain non-functional due to village displacements.

In Benin, government spokesperson Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji confirmed that several schools along the northern borders have been closed to protect students from terrorist threats. The government has relocated affected students to safer sites, noting that schools have become frequent targets for armed groups in the region. Houngbédji emphasized that these closures are a preventative measure against unpredictable attacks originating from across the borders.