It is with deep sorrow and dismay that we share news that fills us with pain and sadness: one of our Action Against Hunger colleagues in Mali was murdered on November 6. We offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Our colleague was travelling on the Ansongo-Gao road to one of Action Against Hunger’s projects in northern Mali when he was fatally shot by unidentified gunmen. Two other Action Against Hunger staff members were in the vehicle. Our other colleague and the driver escaped during the attack on the vehicle and reached the town of Gao.
We strongly condemn this murder and warn of the deteriorating security situation in northern Mali. While the exact circumstances are yet to be made clear, Action Against Hunger demands that justice be done and that those who perpetrate acts of violence against civilians and humanitarian workers be held accountable. Civilians and aid workers must not be targeted (#NotATarget), and they must be given increased protection.
This loss is a tragic reminder of the dangers facing civilians and those who devote their lives to humanitarian aid in conflict zones. Our primary objective is the protection of humanitarian workers, who risk their lives every day to help people most in need. Action Against Hunger calls on the authorities to do everything in their power to guarantee safe humanitarian access in the insecure contexts in which we work.
Our humanitarian operations in Mali were paused after this incident. They remain suspended in the region where the murder occurred but have been resumed in other parts of the country as of November 11, following an update of our security analysis.
In memory of our late colleague, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to our mission: to end hunger, for everyone, for good. We will continue to work tirelessly to bring support and hope to those facing terrible challenges, in this region and in other conflict-affected communities around the world.
Action Against Hunger has been working in Mali since 1996, providing both immediate emergency assistance and support for long-term development projects. We provide lifesaving treatment for people suffering from severe malnutrition and support malnutrition case management in public health facilities. To tackle the root causes of hunger, we run programs focusing on improving food security and increasing access to clean water, safe sanitation, and hygiene.
