Mali has been hit by a surge of coordinated attacks by jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State, targeting military bases, towns and key infrastructure; Authorities have responded with intensified military operations and security measures

Mali's new honorary consulate in Kyoto will open tomorrow, a sign of strengthening mutual links and the country's presence in Japan

Mali is facing an energy crisis, with power plants in Bamako unable to supply more than six hours of electricity daily due to technical failures, fuel shortages and structural weaknesses, causing widespread outages for households and businesses

Road insecurity is an increasing problem, with frequent attacks by groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State targeting fuel and gold convoys; In Kayes Region, an assault burned dozens of tankers and killed at least 15 people