Mali activates crisis center as flood risk looms for 2026 rainy season
Facing high flood risks for the 2026 rainy season, the government of Mali has launched a major prevention plan. On Tuesday, May 19, Prime Minister General Abdoulaye Maïga chaired a meeting that activated the Crisis Coordination and Management Center (CECOGEC) from June 1 to November 30.
The move follows devastating floods in 2024, when 122 incidents affected over 47,000 people and caused dozens of deaths across 17 regions and the Bamako district. That disaster led to a national catastrophe declaration.
For 2026, authorities have approved over 20 measures with a budget exceeding 4.7 billion CFA francs.
The Environment Ministry has begun dredging canals, collectors, and stormwater networks across hundreds of kilometers in Bamako and other towns. Clearing of watercourses and right‑of‑way zones is also underway.
Public awareness campaigns and improved emergency coordination aim to reduce flood impacts, protect vulnerable populations, and strengthen urban resilience against recurring climate disasters.
Titi KEITA
