Malians residing in Ivory Coast have voiced their opposition to Mali’s intended withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which could occur in January.
Around three million Malians reside in Ivory Coast, and many of them are concerned about their future if this plan is carried out.
The leader of the Malian nationals’ collective in Ivory Coast, Amadou Kodjo, expressed concern that this would make it difficult for them to obtain residency permits and support themselves and their families.
“If Mali exits ECOWAS, those of us who rely on cart-pushing for our livelihoods and those working in security will struggle to obtain a residence permit in Côte d’Ivoire, which costs between 400,000 and 500,000 CFA francs (USD$665-832).
“How will we support ourselves and send money back to our families? This is why I am here to speak out,” he said on Sunday, during the convergence of a group of Malian nationals residing in Ivory Coast in Abidjan.
The military junta in Mali is in conflict with the ECOWAS regional bloc, which is urging it to hold presidential elections and restore constitutional law.
Sekou Maiga, a group representative, highlighted the importance of the Malian diaspora to the country’s economy and raised concerns about the impact on young Malians abroad if Mali leaves ECOWAS.
In January, Colonel Assimi Goita’s junta announced Mali’s withdrawal from ECOWAS. The junta also decided to end the fragile peace agreement with rebel groups in northern Mali.