Mali: “AES Place”, a symbol of memory and regional unity in the heart of Bamako
On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga presided over a significant ceremony dedicated to renaming streets, public squares, and institutions in the Bamako district. The event took place at the “ AES Place”, formerly “Africa-France Summit Place”, located in Kalaban-Coura, near the market.
Amadou Ouattara, mayor of Commune V, opened the ceremony by emphasizing the symbolic importance of this initiative. “Renaming our public spaces goes beyond administrative matters. It is a celebration of our heroes and builders, and a precious heritage for future generations”, he said. He stressed the need to inscribe names in public spaces that carry historical and identity values.
Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga praised this initiative, which he considers essential for revitalizing Mali’s historical heritage. He regretted that names inherited from the colonial era, such as Avenue de l’Artois or Rue Archinard, still dominate public spaces despite their weak resonance in the collective memory of Malians.
He reminded the audience that the renaming process began right after independence, citing examples such as the transformation of Stade Bouvier into Stade Mamadou Konaté and Lycée Terrasson De Fougères into Lycée Askia Mohamed. Under the current Transition, this revaluation has intensified with an inclusive approach, aiming to promote a shared history.
The decree of December 13, 2024, which defined 28 individual figures and 7 moral entities, selected only deceased personalities to avoid controversies and ensure national consensus. The ceremony culminated with the unveiling of busts of the three founding heads of state of the Sahel States Alliance (AES), symbolizing regional unity and Mali’s commitment to solidarity and cooperation.
The renaming of “AES Place“ marks a significant step in Mali’s reconciliation with its history. It reflects the Transition’s determination to strengthen national identity and inspire a future full of hope and unity.
