Mali: President Assimi Goita focuses on flood crisis management
Since his ascension to lead the Transition, President Assimi Goïta has demonstrated constant commitment to the security and protection of the Malian people. In response to the flooding crisis that severely affected the country, causing 76 deaths and impacting over 259.000 people, the Head of State once again showcased his ability to respond swiftly and effectively to protect citizens.
On August 22, colonel Goïta made a working visit to the Crisis Coordination and Management Center (CECOGEC), a key structure for disaster assessment and management. Following this visit, he immediately took steps to intensify relief efforts, demonstrating his constant concern for the well-being of the population. He also convened an extraordinary Council of Ministers to adopt a Relief Organization Plan, proposed by the Ministry of Security and Civil Protection. This plan aims to strengthen assistance to the victims and improve infrastructure resilience against future floods.
Under President Goïta’s leadership, several concrete actions were swiftly implemented. Rescue and evacuation operations were organized in the most affected areas, while food and non-food items were distributed to households impacted by the disaster. The government also prohibited the allocation of housing plots in flood-prone areas and continued clearing drainage systems to prevent future flooding.
In response to the scale of the crisis, the President instructed the declaration of a national disaster, mobilizing additional resources to address the situation. The Minister of Economy and Finance released 4 billion CFA francs to support affected families and strengthen the national food security stock. This sum facilitated the distribution of food (millet and rice) and cash assistance for affected households.
Furthermore, the government provided free medical care for over 1,000 displaced people and reinforced the Civil Protection’s rapid intervention units. These measures demonstrate the determination of President Goïta and his team to respond effectively to the urgent needs of the population and strengthen the country’s resilience to natural disasters.
Thanks to this proactive management, Malians are receiving faster and more efficient assistance, illustrating the Head of State’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Malian people.