Preface Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:09 AM
PREFACE
Landlocked Mali is approximately the size of Texas and California
combined. The climate varies from semi-tropical to arid, with a
rainy season from June to October. Bamako temperatures vary from 77°
to over 100° Fahrenheit (25° to 42° Centigrade). Of the numerous
ethnic groups making up the population, 80 percent speak Bambara.
However, French is the official language of Mali.
Mali has a rich and diverse artistic heritage that is expressed
in arts, drama, and music. Tourism is increasing, and rewarding
trips to many parts of Mali are now available, although some of
these are for the adventurous and hardy.
The small diplomatic community allows informality, and Malians
are generally considered friendly. You can expect a challenging but
rewarding tour in Mali.
The Host Country
Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:10 AM
THE HOST COUNTRY
Area, Geography, and Climate
The Republic of Mali is located in the interior of West Africa,
north of the Equator, reaching to the Tropic of Cancer. The country
covers 478,764 square miles, an area about the size of Texas and
California combined. It is landlocked, sharing borders with seven
other African nations: Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast,
Burkina Faso, Niger, and Algeria. Mali is on Greenwich Mean Time
(London winter time), five hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. The
capital city of Bamako lies at an elevation between 950 and 1,000
feet.
Mali stretches across three different climatic regions. To the
south is tropical Sudanese savanna, wooded grasslands broken
occasionally by cliffs and rock formations, watered by the Niger and
Senegal Rivers and their tributaries. In the middle are the
semi-arid steppe-lands of the Sahel. Dry, sandy plains dotted with
sparse trees and bushes and a vast plateau broken by isolated rocky
masses characterize this transitional zone between the savanna and
the desert to the north. This middle area comprises the rock buttes
of Hombori, as well as the Bandiagara escarpment, famous as the home
of the Dogon people. The desert zone in the north covers the largest
area of Mali and is a hot, barren plain whose terrain is contoured
by sand dunes and rocky outcroppings with little vegetation other
than occasional patches of thorn bush.
There are two primary seasons in West Africa. The dry period can
be further divided into two distinct seasons, mild and hot,
particularly in the savanna and Sahelian regions of Mali. The rainy
season usually begins in June and continues into October. Almost all
of the annual rainfall occurs during this time. As much as 60-80
inches of rain may fall in the southern savanna but rainfall is
lower further north. Temperatures range from 70 to 100 degrees
Fahrenheit (21-40°C). The cool season lasts from December to
mid-February, when temperatures range from 60 degrees Fahrenheit at
night to the mid-80s (about 28-34°C) during the day. The hot season
starts in mid-February and goes into June. The air is dry, dusty,
and very hot; temperatures often reach over 100 degrees (40°C) and
clouds of dust hang in the air. This is the season of the harmattan,
the dry, sandy wind that brings dust clouds southwards from the
Sahara.
Mali has two large river systems, the Senegal and the Niger. The
Senegal River crosses into Mali from Guinea in the south and follows
a northwest course into Senegal. The Niger River flows through the
heart of Mali and serves as its most important waterway. The river
courses 2,600 miles, the third longest in Africa, and played a large
role in European exploration of Africa. The Niger flows northeast to
the edge of the Sahara at Timbuktu where it turns east and then
south, passing the town of Gao before entering Niger. The Niger is
navigable from Koulikoro to Gao by large riverboats from August to
November and by smaller craft for most of the rest of the year. Just
beyond the Mali-Niger border, rapids prevent the riverboats from
going further downstream into Niger.
Population Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:11 AM
Population
The population of Mali in 2003 was estimated to be around 12
million, with almost half being under the age of 15. The annual
population growth rate for Mali is calculated at 2.4 percent, and
life expectancy is 45.7 years for women and 43.9 for men (WHO,
2002). Most of the country is sparsely populated; the average
population density is 18 inhabitants per square mile, ranging from
65 persons per square mile in the savanna and Sahelian regions, to
less than one person per square mile in the less hospitable desert
regions of the north. Just over 30 percent of Mali's people live in
urban areas while the rest live in villages or travel as nomads.
About 43 percent of married women are in a polygamous relationship,
which is legal under Malian law. Bamako, the capital of Mali and its
largest city, has a population of approximately 1.2 million people.
Major towns include Sikasso (138,000), Segou (110,000), Mopti
(97,300), Gao (66,000), Kayes (72,000), and Timbuktu (32,500).
French is Mali's official language. Bambara, the most widely
spoken local language, is used by 80 percent of the population,
although each ethnic group has its own language. Mali is officially
a secular state, but 90 percent of the population is Muslim. Less
than 4 percent is Christian. There are animists among the Dogon,
Bambara, and other ethnic groups. The intermingling of these ethnic
groups, facilitated by the Niger River and a wide understanding of
Bambara, have given Mali a legacy of harmony rare among African
states.
Bambara is a written language, as is Tamashek, the Berber dialect
spoken by the Tuaregs. Most other languages do not have this
advantage. The literacy rate in Mali is approximately 32 percent for
men but only 15 percent for women.1 Over two-thirds of the adult
population has had no formal education at all.
Ethnic groups in West Africa can be distinguished not only by
language and physical characteristics, but also by the occupations
to which each group is traditionally tied. Mali's cultural diversity
includes desert nomads, cliff-dwelling cultivators, river fishermen,
and the farmers of the savanna. Within each ethnic group are the
hereditary castes: nobles and farmers, artisans, blacksmiths and
griots (the entertainers and "keepers" of the oral history preserved
through their songs).
The three geographic zones of Mali serve as rough boundaries for
the delineation of the various ethnic groups. Among the groups found
in the savanna zone are the Manding or Mandé, the largest cultural
group in Mali, representing nearly 50 percent of the population. The
Manding speak dialects of Bambara and trace their origins to a small
area located where the present-day borders of Mali and Guinea meet.
This Manding heartland formed the center of the vast Mali Empire,
which dominated West Africa from the 12th to the 17th centuries. The
Manding are divided into several groups, among them the Bambara, the
Malinké, and the Dioula. Also found in the south of Mali, along the
borders of Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso, are Voltaic groups: the
Minianka, Senufo, Mossi, and Bobo, who are primarily subsistence
farmers. The Voltaic peoples represent about 12 percent of Mali's
population.
Among the groups found in the Sahelian zone are the Soninke (or
Sarakole), the Fulani (also known as Pula, Peul, Peuhl, Ful, or Fula),
Bozo, Dogon, and Songhai (or Sonrhai). The Soninke are primarily
merchants, who have historically migrated to other parts of the
continent and who can be found in most of the important market
places of West and Central Africa.
The Fulani, representing 17 percent of Mali's population, are
found throughout Mali except in the true desert areas north of the
Niger in the Timbuktu, Gao, and Kidal regions. Primarily cattle
herders, many Fulani move with the changing of the seasons in search
of grazing lands for their cattle. During the rainy season they take
advantage of the marginal lands away from the Niger, in the dry
season they must move toward the more permanent watering places of
the inland delta of the Niger. The Bozo, semi-nomadic fishermen,
also move up and down the Niger and Bani Rivers following the
Niger's flood and the seasonal fish migrations.
The Dogon occupy the rocky cliffs of the Bandiagara plateau east
of Mopti. They have resisted outside influence throughout their
history and have maintained much of their traditional way of life,
their animist faith, and their art forms, which have been the
subject of study by numerous anthropologists and art historians. The
Dogon are renowned as industrious farmers, cultivating the rocky
areas of the plateau and the sandy Senou plain to its southeast. The
smell of onions is prevalent in plots along the cliffs. The banks of
the Niger near Gao and Timbuktu are peopled by the Songhai, heirs to
the great Songhai Empire of the 14th through 16th centuries. The
Songhai, who make-up 6 percent of Mali's population, are primarily
subsistence farmers.
The Saharan desert zone is populated by two nomadic groups of
Berber origin, the Tuareg or Tamashek, who also inhabit Algeria and
Niger; and the Moors (Maurs) in the northwest, who live on both
sides of the Mali-Mauritania border. These two groups represent five
percent of Mali's population. The harshness of the desert climate
shapes their way of life. They are nomadic herdsmen who move from
place to place in search of water and forage for their herds of
camels, cattle, sheep, and goats. The Tuareg are the fabled "Blue
Men of the Desert," often swathed in indigo turbans, and remembered
for their battles to control the caravan routes through the desert.
Public Institutions Last Updated: 8/23/2004 4:33 AM
Public Institutions
French colonial penetration into the Soudan, the area covered by
present-day Mali, began around 1880. A French civilian governor was
appointed in 1893, but serious resistance to French control was not
eliminated until 1898 when the Malinke warrior Samory Toure was
defeated. The Soudan was then administered with other French
colonial territories as the Federation of French West Africa.
In 1957, France's "loi cadre" (basic law) granted extensive
powers to a Territorial Assembly. A French constitutional referendum
in 1958 accorded complete internal autonomy. The following year,
representatives from Mali, Senegal, Dahomey (now Benin), and Upper
Volta (now Burkina Faso), met to draft a constitution founding the
Federation of Mali. When the constitution was presented in January
1959, only Mali and Senegal voted to join the Federation, which
became fully independent within the French Community on June 20,
1960. The Federation collapsed in August when Senegal seceded. On
September 22, 1960, Soudan proclaimed itself the Republic of Mali
and withdrew from the French Community. President Modibo Keita,
whose Union Soudanaise party had dominated pre-independence
politics, declared a single-party state. Keita's government pursued
a socialist policy based on extensive nationalization.
Deterioration of the economy led to mounting discontent within
the country. In November 1968, a group of young military officers
staged a bloodless coup and set up the 14-member Military Committee
for National Liberation (CMLN) with Lieutenant Moussa Traore as
President. The military leaders renounced socialism and attempted to
pursue economic reforms despite several years of debilitating
internal political struggles and the disastrous Sahelian drought.
The first move toward a return to civilian rule occurred in 1974
when a new constitution was approved by referendum. The military
government remained in power for the five-year transition period
until elections were held in June 1979. General Moussa Traore,
former leader of the military government, was voted into power as
the first President under the new constitution.
The single-party Democratic Union of the Malian People (UDPM)
governed the country with the support of the military until 1991.
Increasing demands for multiparty democracy in the late 1980's to
the early 1990's culminated in several days of violent street
demonstrations, which left about 120 people dead. On March 26, 1991,
a group of officers led by Lt. Col. Amadou Toumani Toure (ATT)
overthrew the government, arresting the President and a number of
his followers. A "Transitional Committee for the Salvation of the
People" (CTSP) was established and appointed a Prime Minister, who
in turn appointed a transition government, which governed for 14
months. In a series of six direct elections between January and
April 1992, Malians ratified a new constitution, elected municipal
councilors, National Assembly deputies, and, finally a president.
Twenty-one political parties nationwide participated in elections,
judged by international observers to be free and fair. Alpha Oumar
Konare was elected to a five-year term in the second round of the
presidential elections and was inaugurated on June 8, 1992.
The President, who is the head of State, appoints a Prime
Minister as head of the Government. The National Assembly is a
unicameral body with 117 members elected from Mali's eight regional
districts. Twelve political parties are represented in the National
Assembly, with the "Alliance for Malian Democracy-African Party for
Solidarity and Justice" (ADEMA) holding the majority. Mali's legal
system is largely based on codes inherited at independence from
France. The highest court within the judicial system is the Supreme
Court. There is a constitutional court and administrative and
commercial courts as well. The Constitution guarantees freedom of
speech, assembly, association and religion. There are nearly 50
independent newspapers and journals in Mali-published with varying
regularity-as well as over 60 independent radio stations in Bamako
and others serving Mali's regional capitals.
Administratively, Mali is divided into eight regions and the
capital district of Bamako, each under the authority of an appointed
governor. Each region has from five to nine districts, or "cercles,"
administered by commandants. Cercles are divided into communes,
which in turn, are divided into villages or quarters. Plans for
decentralization have begun with the establishment of 702 elected
municipal councils, headed by elected mayors. In the North, a
National Pact was signed in 1992, ostensibly to end the Tuareg and
Maur rebellion against the Bamako government. The northern part of
the country continues to be the scene of occasional clashes between
rebels and government troops, despite a peace settlement. In March
1996 more than 3,000 firearms were burned in a symbolic "flame of
peace" ceremony. During that same year there was a steady stream of
Malian Tuareg and Maur refugees returned from Mauritania, Algeria,
and Burkina Faso.
Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:12 AM
Arts, Science, and Education
The richness and diversity of Mali's artistic heritage is evident
throughout the country. Not only do craftsmen continue to work in
towns and villages, but also in Bamako where the Institut National
des Arts (INA) offers instruction to traditional artists. Courses
are taught in the carving of masks and other wooden objects, in
music, dance and weaving, in iron working, and in the manufacture of
silver and gold jewelry. Malian craftsmen also use traditional
designs to create objects in bronze and leather, as well as to
fashion baskets and pottery. Craftsmen trained at the INA often work
in small shops in the Artisanat, a center for handicrafts.
Mali has a small but impressive National Museum whose collection
consists of Malian carvings, masks, textiles, items from everyday
village life, and historical artifacts. The museum also presents
special exhibitions on a regular basis.
The National Institute of Arts, the French Cultural Center, and
the National Museum also hold frequent exhibitions of contemporary
art. Modern interpretations of traditional designs, works in
nontraditional media, traveling exhibits from other countries, and
the works of individual artists, both African and Western, are
presented.
Traditional music, song, dance and drama are encouraged by the
government through radio and television broadcasts, a national dance
troupe, and frequent arts festivals. The ceremonies of life such as
baptisms, marriages, and circumcision ceremonies are recognized with
traditional dance, the beating of the tomtoms (drums) and the
singing of the griot (storytellers) can be heard in even the most
urban of areas. Traditional instruments including the balafon, a
type of gourd xylophone, stringed gourd instruments such as the kora
and dossongoni, tomtoms, and reed flutes are still played.
Several international medical research and treatment facilities
are based in Mali. The Institut Opthalmologique Tropical d'Afrique
(IOTA) specializes in the prevention and treatment of eye diseases.
The Institut Marchoux, established in 1934, is a well-known
leprosarium that conducts research into the prevention of leprosy
and other skin diseases. The Malaria Research and Training Center
funded in part by the National Institute of Health (US), is on the
campus of Mali's National School of Medicine. A malaria vaccine is
in the testing/trial stages from the work of this research.
The research division of Comit‚ Inter-Etats de Lutte contre la
Secheresse au Sahel (CILSS), the Sahel Institute, is based in
Bamako. Made up of representatives from the drought-stricken
Sahelian countries, the institute is seeking ways to counter
desertification and promote economic development.
In principle, primary education is free and compulsory; however,
parents must pay registration fees and purchase books and supplies.
These costs make it difficult for most families to keep children in
school for long. School attendance is 42% at the primary level (34%
for girls), and 10% at the secondary level (2% for girls). Primary
education is divided into two cycles, the first lasting six years
and the second, three years. Secondary education lasts for three
years and consists of either technical training or general secondary
instruction leading to the baccalaureate degree. For the more than
12,000 existing communities in Mali (villages, towns and cities),
there are 2,200 schools, which means that children must frequently
walk long distances to get to the nearest school.
In 1996 several "grandes ecoles" united to form the University of
Mali. This institution grants degrees equivalent to the BA and BS.
Malian students pursue their further studies in universities abroad
(primarily France, Canada, and the U.S.). The "grandes ecoles," each
now a "facult‚" of the university, exist for specialized training: a
teacher's college, schools of engineering, medicine and pharmacy,
administration, and others. These colleges grant BA or BS equivalent
diplomas.
Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:13 AM
Commerce and Industry
Mali is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a per
capita income of under $270 (1999) and a GDP of approximately $2.6
billion. An estimated 85% of the labor force engages in farming,
livestock production or fishing, most at the subsistence level.
About 100,000 work in the agriculture sector.
The most important food crops are millet, sorghum, rice, field
corn and peanuts. Sugar cane, tobacco and tea are also grown for
local manufacture and consumption. Cotton is Mali's most important
export crop and chief foreign exchange earner.
Livestock (cattle, sheep, goats) is raised for both domestic and
export markets. Already Mali's second most important export,
livestock has great potential for further development, thanks to the
January 1994 CFA devaluation. It is relatively free of diseases,
which inhibit animal husbandry in the coastal areas to the south.
Fish from the Niger, Bani and Senegal Rivers supplement Malians'
diets and provide an additional source of income.
Periodic drought has resulted in decreased agricultural
production and serious food shortages. The disastrous Sahelian
droughts of 1973-74 and 1983-84 caused much suffering and
dislocation and forced the Government of Mali to request emergency
food aid in large quantities. Above average rainfall in 1988 and
1989 produced a cereal surplus; 1990 saw less favorable rains and
led to renewed requests for food aid. Food output has increased
since then; 1994 and 1995 registered record harvests for most major
crops.
Mali's industrial sector is small. Most factories are
concentrated in or near Bamako and Segou. Firms engage in food
processing and the manufacture of low technology consumer items,
agricultural tools and construction materials. Many state
enterprises have been privatized in recent years, including textile,
cement and ceramic plants and a tannery and tea plantation. The
government still owns a match and tobacco plant, slaughterhouse and
other units but is committed to further privatization. Private
businesses produce soap, candy, vinegar, bleach, plastic goods,
flour, noodles, construction materials, beverages, etc. Local
enterprises vary from the large cotton ginning monopoly to mid-size
transport and trading houses to sidewalk merchants. Local markets
offer a wide variety of traditional and modern goods. Many companies
are wholly or partially French owned.
With assistance from the International Monetary Fund, the World
Bank and bilateral donors including the U.S., the government
continues to make major steps to encourage development of the
private sector, to increase agricultural productivity and to improve
health, education and family planning in Mali.
France is Mali's leading source of imports with ties going back
to the colonial era. France, West Germany, Cote d'Ivoire, Italy, the
Netherlands, the U.S., the U.K., China, Senegal, Belgium and Japan
provide Mali with imports of food, equipment and spare parts,
vehicles, petroleum products, textiles, chemicals and
pharmaceutical, and other manufactured goods. Imports cost $740
million. Exports of Mali are $556 million (1998), going primarily to
the major markets of France, Switzerland, Italy, Thailand, Cote
d'Ivoire, and Algeria. Mali sells cattle and sheep, mainly to Cote
d'Ivoire and Senegal. Gold, Mali's third leading export, is exported
to Europe. Mali imports $773 million dollars worth of goods (1998),
including over $29 million from the U.S. (1999) for items such as
tobacco and cigarettes, equipment and spare parts, food and used
clothing, and plastics.
Deposits of gold, marble, iron ore, bauxite, manganese, uranium,
phosphate, kaolin, salt, and limestone are found in Mali, but only
gold is exploited on a major scale. Deficient infrastructure and
capitalization costs have prevented exploitation of other minerals.
Two major gold mines are operated by South African firms in the
Kayes and Bougouni regions. Additional gold mining projects are at
various stages of exploration. Limited petroleum exploration has
yielded disappointing results.
Mali belongs to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS),
the Economic and Monetary Union of West Africa (UEMOA), the
Organization to Develop the Upper Senegal Valley (OMVS) and is an
associate member of the European Economic Community.
Transportation Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:24 AM
See subsections on Transportation.
Automobiles Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:14 AM
Automobiles
Employees assigned to post may ship a vehicle or purchase one
locally, preferably from a dealership or departing expatriate.
Second-hand vehicles are often available from people selling their
cars before departure from Bamako; however, prices are generally
higher than in the U.S. See the Embassy newsletter (available via
the CLO) for advertisements. Vehicles purchased on the local economy
take longer to register due to extensive title searches designed to
curb cross-border vehicle theft.
Be advised that, however good and careful a driver you are, you
are likely to have at least minor accidents, probably even when your
vehicle is stationary. The most practical type of vehicle therefore
is one with good ground-clearance, a reliable engine, and solid
bumpers: the paintwork and bodywork are likely to suffer at the
hands of Bamako drivers.
If you choose not to own a vehicle, you may arrange for
carpooling with other employees or take taxis. Employees and
dependents may use Embassy vehicles, when available, to travel
between the office and their residence and limited other use while
waiting for their personal vehicle to arrive. The fee is currently
$2.70 per trip.
The Mission's inventory of official vehicles includes General
Motors, and Chrysler Jeep, and Toyota products. There are
Chrysler/Jeep, Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi dealerships and parts
vendors located in Bamako, as well as European dealerships. However,
in terms of overall service and availability of parts, Peugeot,
Renault, Toyota, and Nissan remain the most practical and economic
cars to drive in Mali. Malian mechanics are most familiar with the
French-made Peugeots and Renaults, although some can work on
Japanese, German, and other types of cars; mechanics are not trained
to work on American cars. Spare parts are readily available for
French-made autos and often available for Toyota, Nissan, and
Mercedes vehicles, but can be relatively very pricey. Spare parts
for American cars and some foreign makes are not immediately
available; they must be ordered from the U.S. or shipped with your
household effects. Consider bringing spark plugs, air and oil
filters, fan belts, water hoses, and wiper blade replacements, as
well as your vehicle repair manual. Jerry cans for gasoline are also
useful because gas stations are infrequent outside the principal
towns. Car window shades reduce the heat for children when traveling
or when the car is parked. Touch-up paint would be useful due to
frequent scrapes.
If you are purchasing a new car, air-conditioning is advisable.
If you have a choice, select a vehicle with good road clearance and
heavy-duty options, such as heavy springs and shock absorbers. Avoid
dark colors because of the high temperatures. A diesel engine works
well in Mali and is more economical than a gas engine.
Most major streets in Bamako are paved but are often in
disrepair. Most residential streets are unpaved and filled with
potholes; they are dusty during the dry season and muddy and full of
puddles during the rainy season. Depending on the season, roads to
and within some tourist areas such as Siby and Dogon Country can be
impassable for cars without good ground clearance and four-wheel
drive so a vehicle with these features is recommended if you plan to
do that type of driving.
It is possible to purchase Peugeots at significant savings
through the company's diplomatic sales program for direct shipment
to Bamako from Paris. This process generally takes about three
months. Contact Peugeot Motors of America in Lyndhurst, New Jersey,
or SODEXA in Paris. The cars are manufactured with specifications
for West Africa.
Employees may purchase tax-free gasoline coupon booklets of 250
liters at the Embassy Cashier price (currently about $.50/liter for
regular, super, and diesel). Unleaded gasoline is not available.
Catalytic converters should be removed from vehicles before
shipment, if possible. A letter from the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), obtained through the Office of Transportation,
Department of State, is required for this work to be done in the
USA. The catalytic converter must be replaced if you intend to
return the vehicle to the U.S. at the end of your tour; it is
therefore advisable to ship it with your household effects if you
plan to sell the vehicle at the end of your tour or ship it to the
next post.
Vehicles shipped from the U.S. do not transit Antwerp, but still
can take about four to six weeks to arrive in Dakar (Senegal), where
clearance procedures can take up to four weeks. Cars are normally
sent to Bamako by train (or by truck in the rainy season). They are
transported in their 20-foot containers to avoid theft. For the most
recent guidance on shipping instructions, please refer to your
welcome cable.
To minimize chances of theft, remove small items such as
cigarette lighters, mirrors, antennas, hubcaps, windshield wiper
blades and arms, radios, cassette players, clocks, and all
documents; ship them with your household effects. Do not store other
items in the car for shipment. Private insurance is recommended for
shipment of vehicles. Vehicles not shipped from the U.S. are shipped
through Antwerp to Dakar when this routing is advantageous.
Autos purchased in the U.S. and France, such as the Peugeots
ordered through diplomatic sales programs, are shipped directly to
Dakar. The GSO for the U.S. Embassy in Paris arranges shipping for
vehicles purchased in France.
Carry to post a copy of the original bill of sale and
registration papers showing serial number, make, model, and year.
Check with the travel/transportation division of your employing
agency for specific advice on the shipment of a vehicle.
A valid driver's license is required to drive in Mali; a U.S. or
international driver's license is acceptable. Vehicles may be rented
through several local agencies, but discouraged. It is quite
expensive to rent a car and often the agency requires that you pay
an agency chauffeur to do the driving. Mali requires drivers to have
proper registration documents (Carte Grise), which must be kept in
the vehicle at all times. The Embassy GSO will assist in vehicle
registration.
Third-party liability insurance is compulsory in Mali. Insurance
policies can be easily obtained from several agencies in town. GSO
can help with local insurance arrangements. Many employees purchase
additional collision, fire, and theft insurance in the U.S. when
they insure the shipping of their vehicle and goods, as these types
of coverage are extremely expensive locally.
Vehicle accidents are the most frequent cause of death and injury
to expatriates worldwide. Driving in Bamako continues to be a major
concern. Although traffic laws do exist, enforcement is practically
non-existent and a degree of chaos ensues. Automobiles share the
road with innumerable mopeds, bicycles, donkey carts, and
pedestrians who do not look before they step into the street. Local
vehicles are often overloaded with goods and people and many drivers
lack rudimentary driving skills. Americans are advised to drive
defensively and expect the unexpected from the drivers around them.
Driving at night in Bamako is dangerous since many vehicles lack or
fail to use headlights and streets are poorly illuminated.
Local Transportation Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:12 AM
Local
The Regional Security Officer does not recommend the use of local
transportation in Mali, due to the poor quality of vehicles and
reckless drivers.
Taxis provide local transportation in Bamako, by green minibuses
known as Sotrama, and by small pick-up trucks with benches in the
back and a canvas top (bâchées). Public transportation is hot,
crowded, and often unreliable, as vehicles frequently break down and
are involved in accidents.
Official yellow taxis (often with "taxi" signs on top) are
usually easy to find in the city. Taxis can be in poor mechanical
condition and the skills of the drivers vary. Passengers should
negotiate a rate with the driver before getting into the vehicle.
Base fares for foreigners range from about 500 FCFA (franc
Communauté Financière Africaine) if a taxi is shared with others, to
about 1000 - 2000 FCFA if there is only one passenger. Taxis may be
hired per trip or by the hour for lengthy or out-of-town trips.
Sotrama and bâchées carry up to 20 closely packed passengers, as
well as chickens, goats and all kinds of parcels bound to and from
market. They have regular routes within town and are inexpensive,
starting at about 150 FCFA depending upon the distance traveled. A
few large imported buses travel around Bamako and between major
towns. Some are air-conditioned.
Peugeot station-wagon "bush taxis" provide transportation from
town to town. Fares depend upon the destination. They are generally
very crowded and often slowed down by delays, breakdowns and, all
too often, accidents.
Legal taxis, buses, vans are marked by the red license plate.
Regional Transportation Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:12 AM
Regional
There are approximately 5,000 miles of permanent dirt roads and
an additional 3,700 miles of seasonal tracks, usable only during the
dry season. Mali has one primary system of paved roads totaling
approximately 1,700 miles. This network connects Bamako with Ivory
Coast in the south via Bougouni and Sikasso, and with Burkina Faso
in the southeast via Segou and Koutiala. The road continues
northwards from Segou, connecting Bamako with Mopti and Gao. The
road south to the Guinea (Conakry) border is currently being paved.
Several portions of a road between Bamako and the Senegalese border
have been paved.
Travel by car off paved roads is often difficult without
four-wheel drive vehicles.
The Embassy prohibits all Americans under Chief of Mission
authority from traveling by vehicle at night outside of urban
centers for reasons of road safety; all travelers must limit
overland travel to daylight hours and avoid dirt track and
unimproved roads.
The sole railway system in Mali connects Bamako with Dakar
(Senegal) via Kayes. The scheduled 36-hour trip to Dakar is not
recommended. Couchettes and first-class service are available, but
electric lights and toilets often do not work. Air-conditioning is
inoperative and travelers need to bring their own food and drinks.
Thieves operate on the trains with great success, particularly
targeting passports and cash.
Airlines serving Bamako includes Air France, Royal Air Maroc,
Ethiopian Air Lines, and Air Senegal. Air France offers direct
flights to and from Paris daily and operates code-share flights with
American Delta Airlines. It is possible to fly from the Bamako-Senou
airport, located about nine miles south of the city, to most of the
major cities in neighboring West African countries; however, they
are relatively expensive and timetables can be unreliable, stranding
passengers for several days. Weekly flights exist to Mopti,
Timbuktu, and Gao, returning the following day; there are also
flights to Kayes. Expect high prices (about $300 round-trip
Bamako-Timbuktu), with frequent delays and cancellations on internal
flights. It is possible to charter private airplanes.
Communications Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:25 AM
See subsections on Communications.
Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:14 AM
Telephones and Telecommunications
Direct-dial long-distance telephone service is available to most
countries and to the U.S. The quality of the connection is usually
good. Within Mali telephone service has improved since 2000 when
eight new Bamako exchanges were added to the two existing ones. Most
government-leased homes are equipped with telephones.
American personnel may place personal long-distance calls via a
call-back service, to the U.S. on Embassy and USAID telephones on a
reimbursable basis. Long-distance calls to the U.S. are expensive.
The cost for a 3-minute call to the east coast of the U.S. is about
$21. Call-back services are now available in Mali at reduced costs
(about $1 a minute). Commercial telegrams cost approximately 18
cents per word to the east coast of the U.S.
American direct-hire, U.S. PSC, and PASA employees are provided
with portable two-way radios, which allow for communication with the
Embassy base station and with other individuals who have radios. The
radio system is monitored at the Embassy by the Marine Security
Guard on duty. Although this system does not offer the privacy of a
telephone conversation, it is invaluable in emergencies and for
information.
Wireless Service Last Updated: 8/16/2004 7:20 AM COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone
All government-leased homes maintained by GSO under ICASS are
equipped with a telephone. Within Mali, telephone service is fairly
reliable, although electrical storms, etc, occasionally cause
outages. Local landline calls cost 75 CFA (about $0.13) for 5
minutes, but land to cell is 225 CFA/minute (about $0.40).
Two primary companies provide reliable cellular phone service in
Bamako although it is a little pricier than the equivalent in the
USA. It can be useful to bring a Tri-Band or a Dual-Band GSM cell
phone with you, as they are more expensive in Mali than in the U.S.
Sometimes phones are available for purchase locally from returning
expatriates. Be certain that any phone you bring is unlocked in
order to use the local cellular service SIM cards. Should you
discover that your phone is locked and your original vendor is
unwilling to share the password with you, you can have the phone
unlocked in Bamako for about $10 to $20.
Depending on job requirements, Direct Hires may be provided with
a USG cell phone. In such cases, the employee is responsible for the
cost of personal calls made from the phone.
Direct-dial long-distance telephone service is available to most
countries including the United States. The quality of the connection
is usually good. Non-peak rates are between 8 p.m. and 7:30 a.m. and
on weekends and holidays. International calls to Western Europe and
North America during these hours are 360 CFA/minute (about $0.65),
and at peak hours are 450 CFA/minute. Call-back services are now
available in Mali at reduced cost (approximately $0.45 a minute in
addition to the timed charge for the local call). In addition,
pre-paid phone cards are available for calls that originate in the
United States for as little as $ 0.15 a minute. These are useful for
family members and friends trying to reach you in Mali. At this
writing, the least expensive vendor that Post is aware of is at
www.UnionTelecard.com. PC-to-phone service is available but requires
a microphone and headset. See www.iconnecthere.com. American
personnel may place personal long-distance calls to the U.S. via a
callback service on Embassy and USAID telephones on a reimbursable
basis.
American direct-hire, U.S. PSC and PASA employees are provided
with portable two-way radios, which allow for communication with the
Embassy base station and with other individuals who have radios. The
Marine Security Guard on duty at the Embassy monitors the radio
system. Although this does not offer the privacy of a telephone
conversation, it is invaluable in emergencies and for information.
Internet Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:13 AM
Internet Service
Internet was brought into Mali in 2000, and there are now many
internet cafes in the main towns. There are currently thirteen
Internet service providers in Bamako, with Afribone (www.afribone.net.ml)
being the most popular. Cost is approximately 19,000 ($35) per month
for 25 hours. Service is quite reliable but normal dial-up speeds
are lower than in the U.S. There is an additional timed charge for
the local phone call while on the internet. It is also possible to
buy internet access cards at 10,000 CFA ($18) for 15 hours. See
http://www.experco.net/prepayed/.
Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:13 AM
Mail and Pouch
U.S. Government personnel assigned to Mali are authorized to use
the diplomatic pouch for personal mail, packages, magazines, and
newspapers, subject to the following restrictions.
All mail, including tapes and processed film, can be sent to post
via air pouch. Medical items, such as prescription medicines and
eyeglasses sent via air pouch must be labeled: "Prescription
Medicine-Air Pouch."
Packages cannot weigh more than 50 pounds nor exceed 24 inches in
length, and 62 inches in length and girth combined. Perishables,
liquids, and fragile items cannot be shipped in the pouch and will
be returned to sender by Department pouch facilities. Pouch
privileges for receiving packages are authorized only for U.S.
direct-hire employees. Contract personnel may use the pouch for
letter mail only and must use international mail to receive or send
packages.
Letters and packets up to two pounds and no larger than one
videocassette may be sent out from post to the U.S. via the air
pouch. Additionally, larger items or gifts received through the
pouch may be returned via the air pouch for refund or exchange.
Applicable U.S. postage for mailing from Washington to the ultimate
destination must be used, so bring a good supply of U.S. postage
stamps.
Personnel are not authorized to send other packages out from post
to the U.S. by pouch, except to return or exchange merchandise
ordered from the U.S. or received as gifts. These return packages
must be endorsed with a statement that they contain merchandise
being returned for exchange. They must also have correct U.S.
postage (or prepaid return labels) for mailing through the U.S.
Postal Service from Washington to destination. All other packages
must be sent out from post via international mail.
On average, the Embassy receives from Washington one air pouch
shipment twice a week via DHL and sends to Washington one to two air
pouch shipments a week, depending on volume. Transit time is
generally ten days to two weeks for incoming and less than a week
for outgoing mail. Employees returning to the U.S. usually volunteer
to hand-carry letters, to speed up delivery.
All pouch mail should be addressed as follows:
For personal mail (All employees):
Name 2050 Bamako Place Dulles, VA 20189-2050
The State Department is advising employees not to identify
themselves as government employees when sending mail via pouch
Official mail only: (State Employees)
Name Dept. of State 2050 BAMAKO PLACE Washington, D.C. 20521-2050
(AID Employees)
Name Agency for International Development 2050 BAMAKO PLACE
Washington, D.C. 20521-2050
(PC Employees)
Name, Title Peace Corps Mali 2050 BAMAKO PLACE Washington, D.C.
20521-2050
U.S. Postal Service regulations prohibit the sending of
registered or insured mail via the diplomatic pouch. Advise
correspondents and mail-order companies accordingly.
Local postal facilities are generally reliable for airmail letter
services. International airmail for letters to and from the U.S. may
take ten days to two weeks. Packages sent from the U.S. by airmail
arrive in three to four weeks. International airmail for packages
sent to the U.S. is quite expensive and not always reliable. Surface
mail is even less reliable and not recommended. Packages sent to or
from the U.S. by surface mail may take three months to a year or
more to arrive. Service and customs fees of 60 percent of the value
of the package are charged for receipt of packages for
non-diplomatic persons.
The international mailing address for U.S. Mission employees is:
Name s/c Ambassade Americaine B.P. 34 Bamako, République du Mali
U.S. postage stamps can sometimes be purchased from the American
Community Services Association (ACSAM). They do not always have them
in stock, so you should bring your own supply with you. U.S. postage
stamps can also be ordered on-line directly from the U.S. Postal
Service (www.usps.gov).
International DHL and Federal Express service is available and
efficient but costly.
Radio and TV Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:14 AM
Radio, TV, and Cable
Radio Mali is the government radio station in Mali. Programs
include government published newscasts, local and Western music, and
special features. Broadcasts are generally in French and Bambara,
with some programming in other local languages and English. Radio
programs are broadcast from 6:00 a.m. to midnight. Radio in Mali is
an important means of communication for public announcements and
local community news. There are many private FM stations (currently
around 15) in Bamako as well, which play mostly popular African
music and present public discussion programs in French and Bambara.
For international programs, a strong short-wave radio is useful.
Stations available include the BBC World Service, VOA, Radio France
International (RFI), Radio Paris, Christian Science Monitor and
Deutsche Welle. See their web sites for further information. Quality
of reception is erratic and may be improved with an outside antenna.
The BBC World Service (in English and French), RFI, and Africa No. 1
broadcast on FM in Bamako. VOA news in French is available every
evening on the local VOA affiliate. There are about 100 FM radio
stations outside of Bamako, most of which broadcast local community
news, announcements, and music.
A specialized World Space radio receiver (available in the USA or
in Bamako at around $120) allows for reception of many channels
either free or on subscription. As well as 20 to 40 free World Space
digital channels from international, regional, and local
broadcasters, the radio offers FM and medium- and short-wave
reception. English-language programs on the Afristar satellite
include: CNN 1 News, WRN's English service, Bloomberg News and
financial information, the BBC World Service African relay, EARZ
(children's programs), RIFF (jazz music), Maestro (classical music),
etc. See http://www.worldspace.com for further information.
Television broadcasting in Mali began in 1984. The Malian
government operates the one national television station, ORTM/Mali.
Programs in French and Bambara and other local languages are
broadcast from 7:00 p.m. to about 11:00 p.m. on weekdays, with
weekend programming between 10:00 a.m. and midnight. Nightly
broadcasts include a news program, a children's program, and
cultural and entertainment programs or movies.
Post has access to AFRTS-SATNET, which broadcasts CNN Headline
News, sports, news talk shows, and some popular U.S. series 24 hours
a day, seven days a week. A Yagi UHF antenna is required for
reception. In addition, if you do not have a Standard NTSC-capable
television that can tune a signal that is offset from Channel 13, a
converter box is required. Incoming personnel may be able to
purchase the converter, antenna, and cabling from departing
personnel or ship to post in HHE or UAB. If purchased in the States
at a vendor like http://atv-tv.org/, look for Antenna 440-6X and for
the tunable down-converter TVC-4G with AC supply. Post broadcasts in
standard NTSC and not all multi-system televisions or multi-system
VCRs are capable of receiving the signal. Please contact the GSO for
details.
Many people subscribe to one of two basic cable services offered
locally: MultiCanal and TV Klédu. A special antenna and decoder can
be purchased locally for approximately $350. The cable companies
offer special programming packages ranging from about $20 to $35 a
month subscription. Channels currently available in English are
M-Net (from South Africa, broadcasting mainly movies, series and
situation comedies, and daytime Kid TV), Super Sport, CNN
International, and ESPN. There are also French- and Arabic-language
channels including RTL and Planète. The local ORTM/Mali TV is
included on the cable systems.
Multivision operates a DSTV (Digital Satellite TV) service from
South Africa. It provides some 24 channels in English and several
music channels. It requires a 1.2-meter satellite dish and a
decoder, which can be bought and installed locally for about $1,000.
A monthly fee of around $100 is also required. This service airs a
variety of sports, news, older movies, and American series plus BBC
Prime, The History Channel, Discovery, Cartoon Network, Animal
Planet, etc.
Mali uses PAL/SECAM transmission systems, which are not
compatible with U.S. TV sets. If you plan to purchase a TV or
video/DVD player, consider buying a 110/220v multi-system TV,
multi-system, multi-speed video, and uncoded DVD equipment. Such
items are available on-line at sites such as www.world-import.com,
as well as in some U.S. stores in major cities. Local stores and the
French Cultural Center rent European-system videos and DVDs. The
Commissary has a library of videos and a few DVDs on the U.S.
system. DVDs have the advantage that they often offer subtitles
and/or dubbing in both English and French language. Black and white
and color TV sets are available locally, but are generally
expensive. For more information on video equipment, see Recreation
and Social Life.
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated:
8/16/2004 9:15 AM
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals
More than 15 French-language daily newspapers are published in
Mali: L'Essor, Les Echos, and Nouvel Horizon are examples. L'Essor,
the official government newspaper, is the oldest and perhaps most
influential in Mali. It contains local news and a limited amount of
international news. A weekly edition, L'Essor Hébdo, centers
primarily on social issues. A private company that also publishes
novels, books, and news on tapes publishes Les Echos.
In addition to the three daily newspapers, there are about 30
weekly publications including L'Aurore, La Roue, Le Tambour,
L'Observateur, Le Democrate, Le Malien, and Le Républicain. These
deal primarily with local news. Specialized publications such as Le
Scorpion and La Cigale Muselée (satire) or Kabako and L'Inspecteur
(crime) appear bi-weekly.
Foreign newspapers and magazines, in English and in French, can
be purchased locally at and near grocery stores and hotels. The
international editions of Newsweek and Time cost from $5 to $7 per
issue; the International Herald Tribune costs about $2. These
publications are somewhat less expensive by subscription; they are
delivered by airmail several days after issue. Subscriptions from
the U.S. through the pouch can take up to a month or more to arrive.
The Embassy publishes a weekly newsletter, Le Griot, which
contains community news, announcements, and advertisements. It is
available on the intranet or via e-mail: contact the CLO for
details.
Health and Medicine Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:26 AM
See subsections on Health and Medicine.
Medical Facilities Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:15 AM
HEALTH AND MEDICINE
Medical Facilities
A State Department Regional Medical Officer (RMO), a local-hire
nurse, a laboratory technician, and a receptionist staff the Health
Unit, located on the Embassy compound. The unit, with an examination
room, a room for overnight patient stays, a laboratory, and a
pharmacy, is equipped to provide preventive, minor, and initial
emergency medical care, including immunizations and limited
dispensary services. The Unit is open Monday through Friday for
routine medical services, with an on-call system for after-hour
emergencies. Services are available to all U.S. Government
employees, their family members, and personnel as approved by the
Ambassador after they have obtained the proper medical clearance
usually done before arrival in Mali.
The Health Unit maintains a list of local physicians available to
treat U.S. personnel. Patients with eye problems may be referred to
IOTA, a research center for eye diseases staffed by French and
Malian ophthalmologists. Few local physicians speak fluent English
and bedside manner differs from that of U.S. doctors.
Dental care in Bamako is very limited. Although simple or
temporary work can be handled in Bamako, the quality of complicated
work such as crowns, inlays, and partials is inconsistent and such
services may be unavailable. Be sure to have a thorough dental
checkup and complete all dental work before departing for Mali.
A local optician is available who can grind prescription lenses;
the selection of frames is limited and very expensive. Bring extra
pairs of prescriptions glasses. Contact lenses and solutions are not
available. Because of the heavy dust, eyewashes are useful for
everyone and particularly for contact lens wearers.
Local pharmacies are not well stocked; supplies of even simple
remedies and common drugs are limited or nonexistent at times.
Medications available are generally European brands; familiar
American medications are not stocked. The embassy pharmacy does not
routinely stock over-the-counter U.S. items. Commissary supplies may
be limited, so you are advised to bring Band-Aids, cough syrup, etc.
in your household effects.
Hospital care in Bamako is inadequate. Two public hospitals are
located in Bamako: Point G and Gabriel Touré. The private clinic,
Clinique Pasteur, has a trauma unit. Hospitals do not meet minimum
standards for sanitation and lack services, trained personnel, basic
supplies, and equipment. The Health Unit can usually provide initial
emergency medical services.
Persons with stable medical problems that cannot be handled at
post are evacuated to London.
It is advisable to bring your latest eyeglasses or lenses
prescription or prescriptions for drugs that you take regularly such
as contraceptive pills. You can register a long-term prescription
with your local U.S. dispensary prior to departure. Web sites for
the larger pharmacies such as www.CVS.com allow you to reorder drugs
if you have a prescription registered with them. Prescription
medications or lenses can be shipped through the pouch and are
prioritized if labeled "Prescription Medicine-Air Pouch."
Community Health Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:15 AM
Community Health
Standards of community sanitation and public cleanliness in
Bamako are poor. Local health and sanitation control measures to
protect public health are inadequate.
Bamako's garbage collection system is erratic and not adequate
for the size of the city. The Embassy provides garbage collection to
all government-leased and owned houses once a week. Only a small
area of Bamako is served by a sewage system, and open sewers exist
even in the better city sections. Most American homes have their own
septic tanks.
Local water supplies are not safe. Bamako's public water supply
is chlorinated, and water is potable when it leaves the filtration
plant, but the distribution system is inadequate and contamination
may occur.
Geckos are common inside homes and they leave feces on walls and
surfaces, which must therefore be cleaned frequently.
During the rainy season particularly, and at other times of the
year, the city is infested with flies, mosquitoes, and other
insects. Personnel are advised to bring a large supply of mosquito
repellents in their shipment to post.
Good household insecticides are available but are more expensive
than in the U.S. and are often strongly scented. Bring special
insecticides for roses and other outside plants and for mosquitoes,
other flying insects, and ants inside the house.
Locally (commercially) bottled beverages and processed foods are
generally of satisfactory quality. Fresh milk is not safe to drink
unless first pasteurized, but you can buy imported UHT-treated,
long-life milk in sterile packages. Refrigerated fresh meats and
poultry are available in the larger groceries.
Preventive Measures Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:16 AM
Preventive Measures
Sanitation and disease prevention and treatment practices in Mali
are not highly developed. The typical diseases associated with poor,
under-developed countries are found here. Among endemic diseases in
Mali, malaria is one of the most serious. It affects nearly all the
population and is a major cause of infant mortality. Also endemic
are schistosomiasis (bilharzias, which causes bladder, liver, and
intestinal damage), trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness),
onchocerciasis (river blindness), tuberculosis, and rabies. Other
diseases present in Mali are meningitis, yellow fever, and cholera.
Intestinal diseases such as amoebic and bacterial dysentery are
common.
For Americans in Bamako, the risk of disease is reduced
considerably by following recommended disease prevention practices,
keeping up with immunizations and booster shots while at post, and
by using malaria prophylaxis. Most illnesses suffered by Americans
could be encountered anywhere; diarrhea and minor intestinal
problems, colds and respiratory infections, and eye and skin
irritations periodically spread through the community. The heavy
dust exacerbates asthma and other respiratory problems. You will
probably need a time of physical adjustment to tropical heat. More
rest, more fluids, and more salt intake are essential.
Before leaving for post, have necessary immunizations, start
malaria suppressants, fill long-term prescriptions, and take care of
needed dental work. American personnel are routinely immunized
against typhoid, yellow fever, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis
A and B, meningococcal meningitis, and rabies, with booster doses
for measles. Start immunizations early. More than one injection is
required for several of the immunizations, and a specified time must
lapse between them.
Malarial suppressants must be taken throughout your entire tour
in Bamako. Mefloquine (taken weekly), the recommended suppressant
for this area, should be started one week before arrival and
continued for four weeks after departure. Alternatives to mefloquine
are doxycycline, primaquine, and malarone, all taken daily. All
malaria suppressants are available in the Health Unit.
Other precautions against malaria include keeping your house well
screened, using mosquito netting (provided by Embassy) around beds,
using insect repellent on exposed skin, and minimizing time out of
doors at night.
Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 8/16/2004
9:16 AM
EMPLOYMENT FOR ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS
Many eligible family members who wish to work are able to find
some type of employment in Bamako. Although virtually no jobs are
available on the local market, some employment opportunities exist
within the American community and with other international and
private organizations.
Several FMA/PIT (Family Member Appointment, part-time,
intermittent, temporary) positions, mostly clerical/administrative,
are available within the Embassy. These positions, such as RSO
Secretary, General Services Assistant, Courier/Escort, and Community
Liaison Officer), range from part-time to full-time. USAID
occasionally has contract vacancies for which eligible family
members are encouraged to apply. Position vacancies are announced in
the mission newsletter. Family members are advised to obtain as much
training as possible (e.g. the 26-day consular course) when passing
through Washington. Some level of French is desired for all
positions and eligible family members are encouraged to get as much
French language training as possible before coming to post.
There are sometimes positions available at the American school
for qualified administrators, teachers (including teachers of
English as a second language), teacher's aides, and substitute
teachers. Participation in the FSI English-teaching course before
departing the U.S. is good preparation, especially for those with no
teaching experience.
The American Community Service Association (ACSAM) positions of
commissary manager and sales clerk are open to eligible family
members when vacancies occur.
Job opportunities for children of employees (aged 16-24) are
available through the Embassy Overseas Summer Hire Program, which is
contingent upon funding availability.
Eligible Family Members who are interested in employment should
contact either the CLO or the Human Resources Officer for current
employment information. It is helpful if you e-mail a resume before
coming to post. Jobs are also advertised in the Embassy newsletter
available via the CLO.
Opportunities for volunteer activities in Bamako exist for those
who speak French or local languages.
American Embassy - Bamako
Post City Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:17 AM
BAMAKO
Bamako, the capital of Mali and its largest city, has a
population of approximately 1,000,000. The city, situated on the
banks of the Niger, is expanding rapidly along both sides of the
river. Three bridges cross the Niger, one a submersible bridge not
passable during the rainy season.
Most of the houses in Bamako are low, mud-walled compounds built
along unpaved streets. Increasingly, however, more modern,
cement-walled "villas" with small gardens are being built. Malian
Government officials, prosperous merchants, and most members of the
small foreign community live in quiet residential neighborhoods,
some near the river and others in outlying areas of the city.
The cliffs of Koulouba, a short distance away, overlooks the city
and river below. Above, on the Koulouba Plateau, are located the
Presidential Palace, several government ministries, and the Point G
Hospital.
Unlike many of the coastal cities of West Africa, Bamako is truly
African. It has in fact been called "the most African of all African
cities." It is a bustling city, traffic is congested and the streets
are filled with cars, mobylettes, bâchées (vans or passenger
pickups), street vendors, and herds of animals, pushcarts, and
pedestrians.
The American Embassy lies in the center of Bamako's business
district at the intersection of Rue Mohammed V and Avenue,
Rochester, NY. Within walking distance from the Embassy are numerous
street merchants, small outdoor markets, and boutiques selling
everything from kitchen utensils to blue jeans. The Grand Marché,
formerly the greatest concentration of artisans and merchants in
Bamako, burned to the ground in 1993. A temporary open-air market
housing many of the Grand March‚'s former merchants has evolved
along the Koulikoro Road. Handicrafts available in Bamako's shops
and marches include batik, tie-dye, and mudcloth fabrics, patchwork
cloth, woven blankets, bronze figures, African trade beads, amber,
wood carvings, gold and silver jewelry (sold by the gram), and many
other items.
Government buildings, many in the French-developed Sudanic style
similar to Mali's mosques, line Bamako's shady streets. Two
landmarks in the city are the 17-story Hotel de l'Amiti‚, built by
the Egyptian Government, and the Grand Mosquée, whose minarets can
be seen from a distance. The Hotel Salam and the Residance Kome are
the two international standard hotels that the Mission mainly
utilizes. The Hotel de l'Amiti‚ is in a rather dilapidated state of
repair, and is no longer used to house visitors, but has a wonderful
view, overlooking the river, and the only golf course in the city.
Also overlooking the river and the city's newest and tallest
building is the Central Bank of West African CFA Zone, (B.C.E.A.O.).
Other points of interest in and around Bamako include the Palace of
Culture (a large auditorium) across the river, the Artisanat, where
local artisans make and sell gold and silver jewelry, ebony
carvings, and leatherwork; the National Museum, a small ethnographic
museum; a botanical garden and zoo.
Security Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:11 AM
See sections on "Driving in Mali" and "Transportation" for
security advisory.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:18 AM
The Post and Its Administration
The U.S. opened an Embassy in Bamako on September 24, 1960; 2
days after Mali proclaimed its independence. The USAID mission was
established the next year, the Peace Corps in 1969. The Department
of Defense (DOD), National Institute of Health (NIH), and the
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), have all recently set up offices
in Bamako. The Ambassador, assisted by the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM),
is responsible for all Mission activities. All heads of agencies in
Mali report directly to the Ambassador. The Managment Section
provides ICASS services to all agencies at post.
The Embassy is located at the corner of Rue Mohammed V and Rue de
Rochester in downtown Bamako. Office hours are Monday to Thursday,
7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Phone
numbers are (223) 22.54.70, 22.48.35 and 22.36.78. The Embassy Fax
number is (223) 22.37.12. Web: www.usa.org.ml The Marine Security
Guard handles inquiries received at the Embassy after hours and
refers them to the appropriate officials.
USAID offices are located near the Banque de Developpement de
Mali (BDM) in the Quartier du Fleuve. The main telephone number for
USAID is (223) 22.36.02; the Fax number is (223) 22.39.33. Other
direct lines to USAID are:
(223) 22.39.35, (223) 22.38.72 and (223) 22.39.71 Web:
www.usaid.gov/ml/index
Peace Corps offices are located in the Niarela neighborhood; the
telephone numbers are (223) 22.44.79 and (223) 22.35.53, the Fax
number is (223) 22.33.69. Web: www.peacecorps.gov
The three-story Chancery building houses the offices of the
Ambassador, DCM, and Regional Security Officer, as well as those of
the political, economic, consular, communications officers, and DAO.
The Marine Security Guard Detachment provides 24-hour security at
the Chancery. The Management Office, Health Unit ,the Human
Resources Office, Financial Management, Embassy Cashier, Community
Liaison Offices, and motor pool are located on the Personal Services
compound across the street from the Chancery. The General Services
Office compound is located in the Ouolofobougou neighborhood about 3
miles from the Embassy.
The Mission opened a new Cultural Center in October 2000, which
houses a library, auditorium, and other public rooms. The Public
Affairs program provides educational and cultural exchange programs,
library and information services, film and VTR presentations, and
cultural programs such as lectures and concerts.
The Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working
with the Government of Mali (GRM) since 1961 when it first provided
assistance in three main areas: education, training, and food
production, with an emphasis on improving livestock production and
rural infrastructure. From 1968 to 1974 the AID Regional Office in
Dakar handled a scaled-down economic assistance program to Mali;
this involved administering activities begun during the previous
period and identifying projects of a regional nature in which Mali
could participate. USAID currently administers a $39 million program
in Mali, directed at education, health, economic growth, democratic
governance and regional programming.
The Peace Corps program was established in 1969 when an agreement
was signed between the Government of Mali and the U.S. The first
small group of volunteers began serving in 1971. The largest Peace
Corps in Africa, there are approximately 200 Peace Corps volunteers
serving in Mali in health, education, agriculture, environment, and
small business development programs.
A Joint Mamagement Office (JMO) provides management support for
the Mission, via ICASS, to State, USAID, Peace Corps, NIH, DOD, and
CDC. The Health Unit provides medical assistance for all U.S.
Mission staff and family members. The Community Liaison Office
coordinators assist new arrivals and serves as a source of
information for the community and as a coordinators of community
activities.
Housing Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:12 AM
Review subsections on "Housing".
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:18 AM
HOUSING
Temporary Quarters
Incoming employees are generally assigned to permanent quarters
immediately upon arrival, or to a U.S. Government-leased temporary
house, if permanent quarters are not yet ready. Temporary duty
personnel generally stay in either the Residence Komé or the Hotel
Salam.
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:18 AM
Permanent Housing
American personnel live in houses that are quite spacious, with
outdoor terraces or screened patios. The yards and gardens tend to
be small but are surrounded by walls that provide privacy and
security. All government-leased houses in Bamako have swimming
pools, with an average size of 8,000 gallons.
The Embassy owns five residences, including the Ambassador's and
the DCM's residences that are located in an older neighborhood by
the river. Houses for all other personnel are leased by the parent
agency.
Residences are usually one-story, cement-walled houses with a
living room, dining area, kitchen, and three or four bedrooms and at
least two full bathrooms. There are storage rooms and a laundry
area, often located outside, separate from the house. Generators are
located in a separate enclosure outdoors. Daily maintenance of the
pool is the responsibility of the employee and cost of repairs are
borne by the property owner.
Furnishings Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:19 AM
Furnishings
All government-leased and owned housing is furnished with basic
furniture and major appliances. The following is a list of items
typically provided:
Living Room: sofa, armchairs, coffee table, end tables, lamps,
bookcase(s), and carpet Dining Room: dining table, 6-8 chairs, china
cabinet, and buffet Bedrooms: queen-size or twin beds, dresser,
chest, night stands, lamps and mirror Patio: table, chairs, side
tables, and chaise lounge Appliances: refrigerator, upright freezer,
stove, washing machine, dryer, vacuum cleaner, microwave, and
air-conditioners for the living area and each occupied bedroom.
Miscellaneous: desk, desk chair, faucet water filter, fire
extinguishers, 2-3 smoke detectors, 2-3 transformers, generator,
outdoor trash can(s), ladder, lawnmower, garden hose and garden
tools.
Post has a limited stock of portable cribs, which can be provided
to families until household shipments arrive. Baby equipment such as
carriages, strollers, changing tables, baby swings, and walkers
should be shipped to post.
Houses are provided with draperies. A limited curtain allowance
is available for purchase of new and replacement curtains. Window
sizes are not standardized; curtains should be purchased after
arrival at post, either locally, or through catalog companies.
Besides essential kitchen and household equipment, the following
small appliances are useful in Bamako: iron, electric mixer,
blender, pressure cooker, meat grinder, hair dryer, non-electric
clocks (differences in cycle speed cause electronic clocks to lose
time), and additional transformers and stabilizers. Also nice to
have are a juicer, toaster, ice cream maker, coffee maker, bread
machine and food processor. Purchase 220v appliances if possible; if
not, transformers for 110v American appliances can be used. However,
110 volt appliances that heat, such as iron, corn popper, waffle
iron and toaster will not work properly with a transformer because
they heat at only half the amperage necessary.
Suggested outdoor furnishings to bring to post include: barbecue
grill and tools; children's play equipment such as swings, wading
pools, and pool toys for the whole family.
Miscellaneous furnishings not provided at post include: clothes
hangers, ironing board, wastebaskets, blankets, bathroom rugs,
shower curtains and hooks, bathroom accessories, pictures and
decorative items.
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:19 AM
Utilities and Equipment
Electrical current in Bamako is 220v, 50-cycle, AC. Transformers
are needed to operate 110v American appliances. Two or three
transformers are provided in each house; if additional transformers
are desired, they should be purchased in the U.S., as none are
available on the local market. One or two 220V surge suppressers are
provided per household. If you believe you will need more, buy them
in the U.S., as they are absolutely essential for protecting
stereos, TVs, computers, etc. Surge protectors are sensitive to
polarity. If the polarity of the transformer is reversed, the surge
strip will immediately blow. Post maintenance can check transformer
polarity for you to help prevents problems such as this from
occurring. You are encouraged to bring surge protection for your
personal phones and/or computer modems. Surges over the phone lines
are not uncommon and a protector will prevent an expensive repair.
Most American appliances are 60-cycle. Stereos, CD players, and
tape recorders should be converted to 50 cycles before leaving for
post. Other 60-cycle, motor-driven appliances will work with
appropriate transformers but operate at only 5/6 normal speed.
Non-electric clocks are a necessity for this reason. European-style,
round-prong sockets make converter plugs necessary for 220v
appliances to be plugged directly into the wall. (General
Electronics, Inc., in Washington, DC carries 220v appliances and
converter plugs; they will also convert appliances from 60 cycles to
50 cycles.) Contact the Overseas Briefing Center at FSI/NFATC for a
listing of other stores in the DC area, or see web sites such as
www.world-import.com.
Municipal electric power is often undependable, and voltage
fluctuations and power outages are common. Circuit breakers often
trip if several appliances are used at the same time. Homes are
wired for two to three different electrical phases, thus a partial
blackout may occur where there is electricity in some parts of the
house and not others. Bring candles and flashlights for blackouts
and for walking out after dark. Portable 110 Volt UPS
(uninterruptible power supplies) will not work through a
transformer. A 220v model must be purchased to work properly in
Mali. Although somewhat pricey, a 220v UPS can be purchased locally.
Generators have been installed in homes of U.S. Government employees
USG to meet minimum electrical requirements during power outages.
Plumbing in government-leased housing is adequate. There are
occasional water shortages and low water pressure. Tap water may
become cloudy during the rainy season. Embassy residences are
provided with a faucet water-filter system, and all USG houses have
hot water heaters.
Cooking is done on gas stoves, fueled by outdoor butane gas tanks
provided by GSO. Butagas may also be used for outdoor gas grills but
the adapter has to be changed to fit the local cylinder.
Food Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:19 AM
Food
Shopping for food in Bamako usually requires going to several
locations for the items on a list. There are open-air markets,
several small grocery stores, tiny neighborhood boutiques, bakeries,
and butchers. Door-to-door vendors sell fish, pork, and vegetables.
A good variety of food can be found in Bamako. Stores and boutiques
generally have fixed prices and are open between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.,
and again between 3:30 and 8 p.m., except on Sundays, when most
places are either closed or only open until 1 p.m. The market is
bustling at almost any time of the day although some vendors close
for a long lunch break. There are no fixed prices, so bargaining is
in order.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are sold in outdoor markets or by
vendors who come to the door. A variety of fruits and vegetables are
grown, although availability, quality, and price depend upon the
season. Vegetables are generally available year round, including
potatoes, onions, leeks, garlic, parsley, celery (very small stalks,
mostly leaves, but adequate for cooking), lettuce, cucumbers,
tomatoes, carrots, radishes, green bell peppers, hot peppers,
eggplant, and okra. Available for short periods in season are beets,
green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, squash, spinach, corn (field
corn), turnips, green cabbage, peas, green onions, and sweet
potatoes. Fruits available in season are mangoes, papayas, bananas,
guavas, coconut, pineapples, oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit,
tangerines, strawberries, watermelon, melon, and avocados. Local
fresh fruits and vegetables are generally less expensive than in the
U.S. Imported apples are available most of the year and on occasion,
other fruits and vegetables such as artichokes, asparagus, endives,
mushrooms, Pascal celery, peaches, cherries, pears, grapes,
nectarines and apricots can be found in the grocery stores. Imported
fruits and vegetables are imported from France and Lebanon and are
extremely expensive.
Peanuts are available year round in the market; almonds,
hazelnuts, and pistachio nuts are available in the stores at high
prices. Herbs and spices are also found in the market: mint, fresh
ginger, basil, hot pepper, caraway seeds, cilantro (Chinese
parsley), bay leaves, nutmeg, lemon grass (citronella), peppercorns,
salt, curry, bouillon cubes, and many local spices, such as ground
baobab leaves. Imported spices are available at very high prices in
the grocery stores.
Mali also raises good beef, pork, and mutton, which are sold in
the market and in several small butcher shops. Beef and mutton
purchased in the open market are freshly butchered and should be
frozen before use. Beef is quite flavorful, but very lean and often
tough so it is useful to bring meat tenderizers and marinades to
post. The French style of cut is available, though some butchers can
do U.S. cuts. Fresh meat is not expensive by U.S. standards; filet
sells for about $2.50 a pound. Chickens are frequently skinny and
tough. Imported bacon, ham, sausages, and pâtés are available in the
grocery stores and butcher shops, but are relatively expensive.
Chicken, turkey, pigeon, guinea hen, and rabbit are also sold in
the market, as are river fish (Nile Perch or capitaine) and carp.
Both poultry and fresh fish are expensive by U.S. standards. Frozen
shrimp is sold in grocery stores at very high prices. Canned seafood
and fish (tuna, salmon, etc.) are also available.
Eggs are available in the market and stores. Fresh milk can be
found but must be boiled before use. UHT (ultra-high temperature)
long-life milk is sold both in whole, 2%, and skimmed forms; it does
not need refrigeration until opened. Powdered whole milk (full
cream), butter (salted and unsalted), and margarine are available,
as is long-life cream. There is a good selection of European cheeses
(Gouda, Edam, Cheddar, Roquefort, Camembert, Brie, Gruyere, several
other French and Lebanese cheeses, and goat's milk cheese), but
these are over $10 per pound. Cottage cheese, mozzarella, and cream
cheese are usually available. Imported crème fraîche (cultured
cream), whipping cream, yogurt, and ice cream are available, but
very expensive. Mali Lait, the local milk producer, has passed
Embassy Health Unit tests on its milk, yogurt, and ice cream but
their products have a short shelf life. Yogurt makers and ice cream
freezers are useful items to ship to post but it is also possible to
make (or teach your cook to make) these items at home without
special equipment. Infrequent shortages of staples such as butter,
eggs, milk, and sugar do occur.
Several grocery stores and neighborhood shops offer a variety of
packaged goods and canned items such as fruits, juices, vegetables,
soups, fish, and meat. The quality of some of the canned goods
available is not as high as equivalent American items. Paper
products, dairy products, sausages, ham, and cold cuts are
available. Also found are liquors, a wide selection of wines (mostly
French but some Spanish, Australian, and a few Californian), local
and European beer, soft drinks, and fruit juices; cookies and
crackers; jams and honey; soaps, detergents, and cleaning products;
coffee and tea; spaghetti, macaroni and couscous; oils, vinegar,
sauces and condiments; cocoa and spices. There are even some
specialty items for Chinese and Vietnamese cooking such as soy sauce
and rice wrappers for spring rolls. Most of the items stocked in the
stores are imported from Europe but some U.S. products introduced to
Europe end up on local shelves. Imported items are expensive. For
example, five kilograms (11 pounds) of laundry detergent costs about
$32.00, a liter of cream can be $16.00, a kilogram of cheese costs
around $22.75.
Jars of baby food and baby cereal are sold in the stores;
however, there is not much variety; they are expensive and items are
often out of stock. High quality European baby formulas are usually
available in the pharmacies and are less expensive than American
brands.
Local bakeries carry French-style bread (baguettes), pastries,
and pain de mie, loaf-style breads similar to, but heavier than,
American bread. Whole wheat and white flour is available, though
most people either bring their own or buy from the Commissary. Cake
and cookie decorating items and food colorings are available in
limited variety at some of the shops.
Canned pet food is sold in the grocery stores. Most pet owners
prefer to have pet food prepared at home, using rice, meat, and
vegetable scraps. Pet products such as flea collars, worm medicines,
heartworm medication, and shampoos, rawhide chew bones and toys are
not available and should be brought to post.
Malian, French, and some American brands of cigarettes can be
found. Pipe tobaccos are not available but Middle Eastern apple
tobacco often is.
The American Community Services Association of Mali (ACSAM)
operates a small commissary for U.S. Government employees and
contractors who have duty-free privileges. The commissary carries
American foodstuffs such as cereal, baking goods, frosting, brown
and confectioners sugar, vanilla and other extracts, unsweetened
chocolate, chocolate chips, cake and pancake mixes and shortening.
Also, sauces, condiments, pickles, jams, syrups, peanut butter,
canned soups (mushroom, tomato, etc.), cereals, gelatins, puddings,
candy, nuts, cookies, crackers, juices, liquors and wines, Chinese
and Mexican food products, personal products, cleaning products and
paper goods are all available but in limited quantity and variety.
Commissary deposits are currently $250 for single and $500 for
family memberships and may be paid in installments; the deposit is
refunded in full on departure from post. However, this is likely to
change to a non-refundable fee system (around $50 per member) in the
future. Transportation expenses make many commissary items more
expensive than their U.S. counterparts; shipments are sometimes
irregular and supplies are limited.
Employees posted to Mali are currently granted a consumables
allowance of 2,500 pounds, intended to offset difficulties caused by
shortage, expense, or unavailability of items at post. Some
employees ship none or only part of the allowance before arrival and
the remainder later when they know the availability and prices of
items locally. Check favorite recipes for special ingredient needs
and request catalogs from mail-order grocery outlets for ideas for
consumable shipments. You might want to include laundry soap, your
favorite cleaning supplies, paper items (such as baby diapers,
toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissue, sanitary products),
ethnic foods, beauty supplies and cosmetics or anything you do not
wish to live without. You can check beforehand with your sponsor or
contact in Mali whether particular items are available at post.
Clothing Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:15 AM
Clothing
Clothing among Malians is predominantly African in style,
although young men often wear Western styles for everyday. Styles
for men include the zerebou, a long tunic over pants, or for
dressier wear, a grand boubou, a long, large embroidered robe worn
over a short tunic and pants. Only a small number of women wear
Western clothing. For everyday, women wear a blouse and a pagne, a
length of cloth wrapped around the waist to make a long skirt. On
formal occasions, women wear a boubou, a long flowing robe, over a
pagne. Many women have elaborately braided hairstyles and often wear
a scarf wound around their heads.
Among the expatriate community, Western-style clothing is worn:
slacks, shirts, skirts, dresses, blouses, etc. Casual, lightweight,
loose, summery styles are worn most of the time. Cotton and
cotton-blend fabrics are preferable because of the heat. Clothing
should be durable and washable; it is very dusty during the dry
season and muddy during the rainy season. Clothing wears out quickly
because it must be washed frequently due to the climate. Fairly
reliable dry-cleaning is available.
Western-style clothing is available in some boutiques but prices
are generally high and quality is not good. Once at post, many
people order clothing and shoes from U.S. mail order companies. The
Community Liaison Office maintains a collection of catalogs for this
purpose. Also, many local tailors can copy a garment from a picture
or sample, although the quality varies depending on cost. Ask
colleagues or the CLO to recommend a tailor in your area. Available
fabrics are largely the European white damask cotton, locally known
as bazin, and locally woven heavy cottons; these are dyed (using the
tie-dye or batik techniques for which Mali is renowned) and
sometimes embroidered to produce beautiful and serviceable (mainly
casual) clothes. A limited supply and variety of imported fabrics is
available, and one store sells a selection of European furnishing
fabrics. Patterns are not available and the supply of sewing notions
(thread, buttons, zippers and trims) is good, but not of the same
quality as in the US.
Shoes and sandals should be low-heeled, sturdy, and comfortable.
There are very few sidewalks, and those that exist are very uneven,
so shoes wear out quickly from the dirt and rubble. For this reason,
as well as the pollution, the heat, and traffic risks to
pedestrians, few expatriates walk very far in Bamako. Sandals can be
worn most of the year and are practical because of the heat. Suede
will be soon damaged because of the prevalence of heavy dust
followed by rains and mud. Shoes and sandals, mostly of synthetic
materials, can be found at the market, but the selection of styles
and sizes is small and the quality varies from fair to poor.
Handcrafted leather purses and flat or low-heeled sandals can be
made to order or purchased off the rack at the Artisanat. Plastic
sandals and flip-flops for adults and children are sold in the
market. Be sure to bring shoe polishes and extra shoelaces.
Bring sports attire, such as tennis wear, exercise leotards, and
good sports shoes, etc. Also, bring several bathing suits, as
chlorinated water tends to wear them out quickly. Lightweight
jackets or sweaters are needed occasionally during the cool season
and an umbrella is useful during the rainy season. Nylon stockings
are uncomfortable because of the heat and are rarely worn. Bring
lightweight hats for protection against the sun. Some warm,
winter-type clothing for all family members is necessary in case of
travel (vacations, trainings, TDYs or evacuation) to cooler
climates.
See subsections on "Children" and "Office Attire"
Men Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:16 AM
See Main Section "Clothing"
Women Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:16 AM
See Main Section "Clothing"
Children Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:20 AM
Children
For children, be sure to bring a generous supply of summer
clothing. Heat and dust often necessitate several changes a day.
Playwear should include shorts, pants, jeans, sundresses, tee
shirts, swimsuits, sandals, sneakers, and sun hats. Dress for school
is informal. Local tailors make charming children's clothes in
colored cotton. Other items to bring for children are cotton
underwear, socks, pajamas, a light-weight jacket, several sweaters,
some winter wear and a coat for travel to cooler climates. For
infants, bring a large supply of cloth and disposable diapers,
diaper pins, and rubber pants. Disposable diapers are sometimes
available on the local economy but are very expensive.
American-style rubber pants are not available. Some baby clothes are
available but the variety is small and the quality is poor. Cotton
undershirts, cotton pajamas, and summer-weight infant wear should be
brought to post. Don't forget extra shoes in several sizes for
rapidly growing toddlers. Flip-flops and plastic sandals for
children are available in the market. Bring baby towels, washcloths,
crib sheets, and cotton baby blankets.
Office Attire Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:21 AM
Business Attire
Business dress is more casual than in the U.S.: short-sleeved
shirts worn without a tie, sports shirts and pants for men;
lightweight casual dresses, suits, and skirts and blouses for women.
Dress at informal evening functions is generally casual: sports
shirts, pants, short or long dresses and skirts, etc. For receptions
and cocktail parties, suit or sports coat and tie, and cocktail
dresses are appropriate. Only a few formal affairs are held during
the year, including the Marine Corps Ball in November. Proper dress
for these affairs is suit and tie for men and long or short
evening/cocktail dresses for women. The Ambassador and DCM may wear
formal wear on occasion.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:21 AM
Supplies
Although most basic everyday needs are found in Bamako, imported
items are generally very expensive. The majority of brands are
European, with some American products. If you do not want
substitutes for favorite items and brands, then ship these items to
post. The following are suggested items for shipment to Bamako.
Remember that soaps and cleaning products must be packed
separately from foodstuffs; otherwise, the heavy perfumes will
permeate edible items.
Also remember to pack in your air shipment or your airline
luggage any supplies for holidays, birthdays, etc. that you will
celebrate at post before your household effects shipment arrives.
General Household Items: The following items are available
locally at reasonable prices: clothespins, general-purpose liquid
soaps for housecleaning and dishwashing, scouring powders, hand
soaps, steel wool and plastic scrub pads, good quality plastic
buckets and tubs, laundry baskets and handmade clothes hampers,
dustpans, dusters and cleaning cloths, spray insecticides,
flashlights, and size D and AA batteries only.
Bring the following items: an ironing board, flat rubber sink
stoppers, clothes hangers, garment bags, and shelf paper. For small
household repairs, bring a basic tool kit including a hammer,
screwdriver, pliers, saw, and a drill with masonry bits.
Miscellaneous masonry screws and nails are also useful to bring:
while hardware items such as this can be purchased in the market it
can take time to locate them. Super glue, masking tape, electric
tape, tacks, and picture-hanging wire and nail-in hooks are not
available here. (Stick-on picture hooks rapidly dry out and fall off
the wall.) An outdoor thermometer, which registers temperature in
both Fahrenheit and Celsius degrees, is interesting to have. Mops
and brooms, are available, but wear out quickly so it is useful to
bring them along with many replacement heads. . Laundry detergent,
fabric softeners, and stain removers are available, but are
expensive.
The following are not available: fly swatters, pre-soaks and
starch, silver, brass, and furniture polishes. Size D and AA
batteries are produced locally; other sizes are not consistently
available and are relatively expensive, so bring any specialized
batteries your camera, remote controls, clocks, and watches may
require.
Kitchen Items: Bring all of your usual pots and pans; bake ware,
kitchen utensils and knives and enough dishes, glassware, silverware
and serving dishes to serve about twelve. Party supplies such as
stem and straight glasses, silverware, and extra tablecloths and
coolers can be borrowed from GSO as available for larger dinners and
parties. Also, bring freezer containers and airtight canisters or
containers for staples such as flour, sugar, rice, etc., to keep
them sealed from insects. The few sealable plastic containers sold
here are expensive. Canning jars are useful for storing homemade
jellies, jams, and chutneys made with seasonal fruits. Because of
the hot climate, people drink more liquids; bring several water
pitchers, beverage jugs, a thermos, an ice bucket and tongs, and
additional ice cube trays. Strong plastic cups are useful for drinks
outdoors, and particularly to avoid having glasses in the pool area.
Small covered kitchen garbage pails can be purchased here. A large
supply of kitchen towels and dishcloths is important as they wear
out quickly. Paper towels, aluminum foil and freezer bags are
available, but expensive. Plastic wrap and zip-lock type bags (also
necessary to keep out ants and weevils) are not available, nor is
waxed paper. Paper plates and cups are quite expensive here. Bring
cookbooks with color pictures (or even in French, if possible),
which are useful if you plan to hire a cook. Dish drainers/racks and
sink mats are usually available at the one or two home-décor stores;
locally made and imported potholders are available but often of low
quality. Knife sharpeners, oven thermometers, kitchen timers, and
other miscellaneous items are not available in Bamako. It may be
useful to bring a kitchen scale that shows both the metric and
imperial (pounds and ounces) system. Mali uses the metric system, as
do the French, so any recipes in a language your cook can read are
likely to have metric measurements.
See section on Utilities and Equipment regarding kitchen
appliances.
Linens: Sheets, pillowcases, and lightweight blankets should be
brought to post. Beds are either queen or twin size. Mosquito nets
are provided. If available, pillows may be provided but you should
bring your own. Bring bath towels, beach towels, washcloths, and
bath mats. A wide selection of attractive hand-dyed cotton
tablecloths, napkins, and place mats are available locally at good
prices and fit most table sizes. (They also make good gifts.) Dining
tables are oval or rectangular and seat 8-12 persons. Cloth napkins
are practical, as paper napkins are imported and expensive. You may
also want to bring cocktail napkins and coasters and some paper
napkins for holidays, birthdays, etc.
Bathroom: Most houses have more than one full bathroom. Shower
curtains, shower rings, and toilet brushes are not provided. It is
important to bring Bathroom throw rugs and non-skid mats or adhesive
strips for the bathtub because floor tiles are often slippery and
tubs can be awkward to climb into. Extra towel racks are also
useful.
Toiletries: Most basic toiletries can be found in Bamako. They
are generally low-quality imported products and are expensive. Good
European-brand shampoos, deodorants, toothbrushes, toothpaste,
shaving cream, disposable razors, suntan lotions, sunscreens,
moisturizers, and feminine hygiene products are available but
relatively expensive. Razor blades to fit American razors, hair
conditioners and home permanent, dental floss, and disposable "Wash
'n' Dri"-type towelettes are not available. Bring lots of insect
repellent; the locally available insect repellent is greasy and
heavily perfumed. Some cosmetics and nail care products are
available, though the selection of colors and types is limited. You
should bring your favorite brands of cosmetics and toiletries.
Medical Supplies: Bring a supply of household medicine chest
items such as aspirin, Band-Aids, standard first aid supplies, birth
control items, thermometer, heating pad, ice bag, vaporizer,
diarrhea medication, products for insect bites, heat rash and
sunburn, vitamin and mineral supplements, and baby needs such as
diaper rash ointment, etc. Bring at least two extra pairs of
prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses. The local French optician
can grind lenses but the fee is high. Contact lens solutions and
cleaning items are not available here. The Health Unit stocks a
supply of drugs to meet emergency needs; however, you are expected
to maintain your own stock of everyday items. Before leaving the
U.S., arrange for a regular supply of any known needs for
prescription medications. Several worldwide web pharmacies will mail
order health, drug, and sundry items.
Office Supplies: Basic office and paper supplies can be found
locally, but standard sizes of paper and envelopes are different
from equivalent American items. You might want to bring the
following: greeting and note cards, staples, rubber bands, paper
clips, string, regular and legal-size envelopes and computer paper,
Scotch tape, a pencil sharpener and correct-it tape, (white-out
dries out). Printer ink cartridges tend to dry out unless kept in a
permanently air-conditioned room. Bring a supply of American postage
stamps and at least a year's supply of extra bank deposit slips and
checks. Printed address labels are very handy. A good French-English
dictionary is also important to have.
Children: Bring toys, games, books, bicycles, videotapes and
DVDs, etc. A limited variety of toys can be found here, but the
prices are incredibly high and quality is low. Also, bring activity
supplies such as crayons, coloring books, chalk, construction paper,
paints, brushes, and paste. Most of these items are not available.
Ordinary school supplies such as pencils, pens, tablets, and paper
are all available and reasonably priced. For younger children and
infants, bring booster chairs, car seats, bed guards, potty seats, a
food grinder, baby bottles, etc. Bring birthday party supplies,
invitations, cake decorations, candles, balloons, favors, etc. Don't
forget birthday and holiday gifts for your children and a good
supply of small birthday gifts and gift-wrap for other children's
birthdays.
Home Entertainment: Many families in Bamako have video/DVD
equipment. ACSAM runs a video/DVD club with American-system movies.
You may want to arrange for someone in the States to record special
programs for you. Also bring a stereo system, CD and/or cassette
player, tapes, and CDs. Street vendors sell inexpensive
audiocassette tapes and CDs. Bring camera/video equipment, film,
batteries, etc. Don't forget film mailers; film can be developed
here, but print quality is inconsistent and is expensive. A digital
camera avoids having to develop film and gives you something to show
local people immediately if you take their photograph.
The following computer equipment is available: Full
representative of IBM, Compaq, Apple, Dell and the French brand
Zenith. Bring or buy a good UPS with a built-in stabilizer that runs
on 220 volts (50hz). Computer with modem, 56K is recommended, and
printer ink cartridges (that must be kept in a permanently
air-conditioned room). There is reliable technical service for
repairs and upgrades from in-house staff and some local technicians
can fix many problems. The brands listed above have good repair
technicians.
Because of frequent power fluctuations, it is a good idea to
bring several voltage regulator/stabilizers. They are expensive, but
used along with a surge suppresser will afford the best protection
for your investment. Voltage regulators should be sized according to
the power consumption of your equipment. Remember that laser
printers draw a lot of wattage. A general rule of thumb is to buy a
regulator with twice the wattage of the equipment you are going to
be using on it.
Sports and Games: Bring any sports equipment you are likely to
require, such as tennis racquet and balls (there are several tennis
courts and fees and lessons are inexpensive), softball gloves and
bat (there are several regional tournaments for players of all
levels), golf clubs (there is a nine-hole course), camping equipment
(tent, sleeping bags, lanterns, coolers, floor mats, etc.), lawn
games such as badminton and croquet, indoor games, playing cards,
scorecards, fishing equipment, tack if you ride (riding lessons are
inexpensive), and plenty of pool toys and games. Bird watching is
good in many areas; if interested, bring binoculars and the Field
Guide to West African Birds (see bibliography).
Pool Supplies: Chlorine and algicide, the most expensive swimming
pool products, are available in Bamako. It is illegal to ship
chlorine in airfreight, and may cause damage to the surface freight.
Six gallons of algicide should last two years and is much safer to
bring in the freight. Swimming pool chemicals may be shipped as
surface HHE but not as UAB, although some moving companies may
refuse to pack them due to potential liability. Employees should
check with their assigned packer before purchasing large quantities
of pool chemicals. "Pool shock" is a relatively inexpensive product
that it very simple to use and lasts longer than locally available
chemicals. Employees are strongly advised not to include chlorine in
the same shipment with other consumable items. Bring pool toys such
as rafts, noodles, inner tubes, balls, etc.
Vehicles: See section on Automobiles.
Hobbies: Bring musical instruments and sheet music. Needlework,
sewing and craft supplies are difficult to find here; a list of
mail-order sources for craft and hobby supplies is very useful. If
you like to garden, bring gardening tools and flower and vegetable
seeds for hot climates for you or your gardener to plant; common
vegetable and flower seeds are available here. Snail/slug bait is
good to bring along.
Holiday items: Bring supplies for Thanksgiving, Christmas,
Hanukkah, Easter, Halloween, Valentine's Day, etc. such as
decorations for the house, special holiday recipes, foods and
candies, and an artificial tree and ornaments for Christmas (these
are incredibly expensive locally). Such items really help to bring
holiday spirit to "faraway places." Also bring Christmas and holiday
greeting cards, wrapping paper, ribbon, and holiday party supplies
if you like to entertain. A small selection of Christmas and New
Year's cards with African motifs are available locally.
Basic Services Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:21 AM
Basic Services
Many tailors in Bamako will make simple clothing, do piecework
such as buttonholes, sew slipcovers and curtains, and do mending.
Tailors make all types of clothing for women, in both Western and
African styles; safari-type suits, pants, and shirts are the most
common items for men. The work is generally reasonably priced and
quality is usually fair.
Simple shoe, leather, purse, and watchband repairs can be done at
the Artisanat. The work is done by hand, but is adequate and
inexpensive.
Laundry is done at home, as government-furnished housing is
supplied with a washer and dryer. Many people employ a domestic
employee to do the washing and ironing. Dry-cleaning services are
reasonably good, but not up to U.S. standards.
Bamako has several unisex hair salons that offer the usual
services at moderate to high prices. Quality varies but most
expatriates find a hairdresser that they like.
Bamako has radio repair shops, but parts for U.S. equipment are
rare. The quality of work is improving. Repair service for other
types of U.S.-manufactured equipment are not generally available in
the city and must be ordered from the U.S.; however, local
technicians with the proper parts are capable of doing basic
repairs.
Domestic Help Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:22 AM
Domestic Help
Most American families employ domestic helpers who are available
at reasonable wages. Cooks and cleaning staff may be male or female,
although women are usually hired to care for children. The average
family employs a housekeeper/cook and a gardener/pool man; they may
be full- or part-time. Families with small children often have a
nanny and some families employ a full-time cook in addition to a
housekeeper. Servants rarely live in, although they can be asked to
work in the evenings, and/or weekends; they are usually paid extra
for these occasions. English-speaking domestics are rare; many will
speak reasonable French, although fluency varies, and many domestics
do not know how to read or write.
The Community Liaison Office may be able to assist in finding
qualified household staff. Incoming employees often hire staff who
have previously worked for other Westerners and who have proven
their reliability. Most domestics seeking employment have
attestations, letters of recommendation from former employees, which
you should read. Domestic staff should have a physical examination
and chest X-ray before employment, and annually thereafter. Upon
request, the RSO will conduct local agency security employment
checks on domestic staff as a courtesy to American employees.
The workweek is generally 5-6 days a week, 8-10 hours a day.
Salaries, paid in CFA francs, range from $60 to $160 monthly,
depending on the employees' responsibilities and experience. Food or
an allowance for one meal per day and a transportation allowance may
be provided. Some employers also provide coffee, tea, and sugar as
well as a clothing allowance to buy uniforms. Although the employer
is not obliged to give the employee bonuses for holidays, it is
customary to give something at Ramadan and at Tabaski, the two major
Muslim holidays in Mali, or at Christmas. Employees are entitled to
a month's vacation each year, although extra pay may be given in
lieu of vacation if mutually acceptable.
Unlike many countries, Mali has established a work code for
household help that stipulates working hours, overtime pay
requirements, probationary periods, vacation and sick leave
policies, meal and uniform policies, salary increases, and
compensation for termination of employees. The Human Resources
Office has published a detailed booklet on employing domestics,
including an explanation of the work code. "A Guide to Employment of
Domestics in Mali" is available in the welcome folder.
A contribution is required for every 3-month period to the Malian
social security system (INPS) for each employee, including during
the trial period. This protects both employer and employee in case
of accident or illness and provides hospitalization, a monthly
stipend for each child of the employee, a pregnancy stipend, and
retirement benefits to the employee. The Human Resources Office or
the USAID EXO will handle payment of this contribution for you.
Religious Activities Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:22 AM
Religious Activities
Islam is the predominant religion in Mali. A large mosque is
located in the center of Bamako, and many small neighborhood mosques
are situated around the city.
There are also Catholic and Protestant churches in Bamako. Mass
in French and Bambara is regularly celebrated at the large,
centrally located Roman Catholic Cathedral, with a mass in English
on Sunday mornings. Protestant services in English, French, and
Bambara are held at a Protestant Church in town. Protestant Sunday
school classes for teens and children, plus an Adult Bible Study
group, are held at the American School on Sundays during the school
year. There are also Jewish, Baha'i, and Jehovah's Witness
communities in Mali but there is no synagogue.
Education Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:17 AM
See Subsections on "Education".
Dependent Education Last Updated: 8/23/2004 4:52 AM
Dependent Education
Enrollment plans should be made early for all schools as they
fill up fast.
At Post:
The American International School of Bamako was established in
January 1977 to provide an American curriculum for children from
nursery to pre-kindergarten (from age 2) through 8th grade. For the
school year 2004-2005, it offers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-4) through
grade 10. Students in high school grades 11 and 12 can complete
their course work through the Independent Study High School of the
University of Nebraska (http://dcs.unl.edu/ishs). AISB provides
students with a distance learning coordinator, who assists them with
all logistics of their study.
AISB is a private, non-profit institution governed by a school
board of seven elected members, four U.S. passport holders and three
citizens of other nations. The U.S. Ambassador has a non-voting
representative, who attends all Board meetings. They are responsible
for the governing policy and financial management of the school. The
school is 95-percent funded by day-school tuition and fees. The
school also receives grant monies from the Department of State's
Office of Overseas Schools. Accreditation is by the Commission on
Elementary Schools of the Middle States Association of Colleges and
Schools. AISB is currently adding high school grades through the
Ascending Grades Protocol of the Middle States Association.
Admission to AISB is open to children from the official American
community, American business and missionary groups, and other
diplomatic and international organizations. School enrollment during
the 2003-2004 school year included 110 students, representing some
30 nationalities.
In the same year, the faculty consisted of 10 direct-hire
overseas teachers. Locally hired teachers for Art, Music, Drama and
ESOL are licensed and trained in the U.S. and Canada. All French
teachers are native speakers trained in France, Mauritania, and the
U.S.
Course-work is based on a standard U.S. curriculum. Curriculum is
published publicly and uses a U.S. standards-referenced format.
Placement tests in mathematics, vocabulary, and reading
comprehension are given to all new students. Admission is based on
previous school achievement, age, and a personal interview. Further
testing for placement is at the discretion of the AISB director. In
addition to regular courses, students in grades Kindergarten through
10 take special classes or electives in art, music and drama, French
and physical education. Classes of English for Speakers of Other
Languages (ESOL), taught by a trained professional, are available to
AISB students who are not fluent in English; an additional fee is
charged for this. There is also an exciting after-school activities
program for sports, games, and handicrafts, including African dance,
drumming, and crafts.
Average class size is 10 to 12. There are no combined grades in
elementary, middle school, or high school. Middle school students
enjoy a program based on best-practice middle-school philosophy for
grades 6, 7, and 8. The high school program follows best practice
for a college preparatory curriculum.
AISB is currently located on rented land. The school buildings
were constructed in 1982 and are located on a pleasant site near the
eastern bank of the Niger River. There are twenty air-conditioned
classrooms, a large multi-purpose room with stage, a well-stocked
library, and a main office on three locations within a one-block
area in a quiet suburb outside Bamako proper. Grounds for outdoor
activities and physical education classes are located on campus. The
school is equipped with playground equipment and all of the
necessary texts and school materials. The campus includes two houses
that serve as the Middle School/High School. Another villa houses
the Early Learning Center for Pre-K and Kindergarten.
There is a computer lab with 16 stations using iMac computers.
Computer use and instruction is completely integrated into the AISB
curriculum at every level from Pre-K through grade 10. All students
use the computer lab. Middle and High School students have a smaller
satellite computer lab in the Middle/High School area. AISB has a
radio connection to the broadband Internet connection of the
provider used by most diplomatic and NGO institutions in Bamako. The
school has continuous fast, reliable Internet service for all
computers in the labs, library, and office. AISB has an Ethernet
Intranet connecting computers within the school. The Middle/High
School computer lab has a wireless connection to the main campus.
In 2001, AISB constructed a new library on the main campus, which
houses 9,000 volumes for students in all grades along with a
professional library for teachers. The library also offers computer
resources, including internet, and uses a Follett Automated computer
system for both catalogue and circulation.
In April 2003, in response to rising numbers, the American
International School of Bamako purchased 5 hectares (12.5 acres) of
land in Sotuba, an area of eastern Bamako on the Niger River. The
school has hired a Project Manager and selected an architect and
construction begins during the summer of 2004. The school
anticipates a move to the new campus in 2006. The completed master
plan includes 75 square meters of classrooms, a state of the art
library and computer lab, a high school level science lab,
competition-size swimming pool, soccer and track field, and an
indoor performance space.
School is in session Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 2:10 p.m.,
with kindergarten finishing at 1:30 and pre-K at 11:30. There is a
mid-morning snack break, plus a lunch recess. The academic year,
which starts in late August and ends in mid-June, is divided into
three trimesters and totals 175 school days.
Tuition for the 2004-2005 school year is $3,960.00 for
pre-kindergarten, and $13,000.00 for kindergarten through grades 12.
There is a one-time registration fee of $275, and a one-time capital
development fee of $3,000.00, which includes all textbooks and
materials. Pre-K students pay half the capital development fee on
entry ($1,500.00) and the remaining $1,500.00 on entering
Kindergarten. An educational allowance covers tuition and fees for
direct-hire U.S. Government employees for kindergarten and above.
Round-trip school transportation is provided for children of
Embassy, AID, and DAO employees. Round-trip school-bus
transportation is available for all children for an annual fee of
$1,500.00.
Questions about the American School should be directed to the
Community Liaison Office coordinator, or to the school (AISB, 2050
Bamako Place, DOS, Dulles, VA 20189). The telephone for the school
is (223) 222 4738. Fax is (223) 222 0853. Email: aisb@aisbmali.org.
AISB has a complete web site with current photos at www.aisbmali.org.
Families can register students electronically.
A Christian Missionary School is located near the current AISB
site.
There is also a French-language school, Lycée Français Liberté A,
for French citizens and other French-speaking foreign children.
Among the over one thousand children, thirty-one nationalities are
represented, including French, American, German, Malian and Russian.
Liberté A provides primary classes from grades 1 through 5, and
secondary grades equivalent to American grades 6 through 12.
Secondary studies are preparatory to the French baccalaureate
degree. Liberté A usually only allows French-speaking children into
its program, and preferably those younger children who have already
attended a French school or kindergarten.
Students attend Liberté A from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday
through Saturday, although the primary school does not usually
operate on Saturdays, while higher grades have some afternoon
classes from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The 35-week school year starts
in early September and runs through June.
Tuition for school year 2004- 2005 is Euro 1,477 for elementary
grades, Euro 2,044 for college level and Euro 2,835 for the lycée
(grades 10-12). All students are also required to pay an annual
registration fee of 71.65 Euros. Tel: 223 222 4123. Fax: 223 222
0666. See w3.libertebko.org.
Bamako has several French-language pre-schools. Rose et Blue,
while not equivalent to an American day-care center, does provide
childcare and play activities for children between the ages of 1 and
6 years of age and is open year-round. Les Lutins offers a
pre-school program, which is preparatory for entrance to Liberté A's
elementary classes. Les Lutins is open from early September through
mid-June. There is generally a waiting list for admission, so
enrollment plans should be made early. E-mail Director PTA, at: aoua@cefib.com.
Away From Post:
Because of the lack of an English-language secondary school in
Mali, an educational allowance is authorized for children of U.S.
Government employees to attend high school away from post. Many
high-school-age family members attend boarding schools in the U.S.
and Europe. Many foreign-service personnel send their children to
Switzerland; among the schools most frequented are Leysin, TASIS,
and Le Rosey.
There are also two English-language boarding schools, which are
operated by the West African Baptist Missionary group, in
neighboring countries. The International Christian Academy in Dakar,
Senegal, offers grades 1-12, with a college preparatory curriculum
at the secondary level. The school has American academic standards,
a supportive staff, and a friendly atmosphere. Admission is open to
any English-speaking child; however, enrollment fills up quickly and
preference is given to children of missionaries. The other school,
in Bouaké, Ivory Coast, an one-hour flight from Bamako, is currently
non-operational because of the conflict in that area.
Several publications are available to help in the selection of
schools away from post. The Educational Register, a guide to
independent schools and summer programs, is available free from
Vincent/Curtis, 224 Clarendon Street, Boston, MA. Schools Abroad of
Interest to Americans, by Porter Sargent Publishers of Boston, is a
guide to schools outside the U.S. These publications and other
information are available in the Office of Overseas Schools in the
Department of State or in the Community Liaison Office at post.
Other questions about education may be addressed to the Educational
Counselor of M/FLO office at the Department of State.
At Post Last Updated: 8/31/2000 6:00 PM The American
International School of Bamako (AISB) was established in January
1977 to provide an American curriculum for children from nursery to
pre-kindergarten (from age 2) through 8th grade. AISB is a private,
non-profit institution governed by a school board, of seven elected
members and the Ambassador's Representative. They are responsible
for governing policy and financial management of the school. The
school is 95% funded by day school tuition and fees. The school also
receives grant monies from the Department of State's Office of
Overseas Schools. Accreditation is by the Commission on Elementary
Schools of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Admission to AISB is open to children from the official American
community, American business and missionary groups, and from other
diplomatic and international organizations. School enrollment during
the 1999-2000 school year included 86 students. A third of the
student body is from the U.S.; 18 other nationalities are
represented.
In school year 99-00, the faculty consisted of five overseas
hired homeroom teachers plus locally hired French language, art,
music, library, and PE teachers.
Course work is based on a standard U.S. curriculum and testing
program. Placement tests in mathematics, vocabulary, and reading
comprehension are given to all new students. Admission is based on
previous school achievement, age, the placement tests, and a
personal interview. In addition to regular courses, classes are
given in art, music, French, physical education, and computer
science. English-as-a-second language (ESL) classes are provided to
AISB students who are not fluent in English; an additional fee is
charged for this. There is also an after-school activities program
for sports, games, and handicrafts. Classes are small, with a
student-teacher ratio of less than 10 to 1. Only students with mild
learning disabilities or physical handicaps that meet all other
admission requirements will be accepted.
The school buildings were constructed in 1982 and are located on
a pleasant site facing the Niger River. There are 10 classrooms, a
library, and a principal's office. All classrooms are
air-conditioned. Grounds for outdoor activities and physical
education classes are located on campus. The school is equipped with
a well-stocked library, playground equipment, and all of the
necessary texts and school materials. Two houses have also been
acquired to serve as School Office and the Early Learning Center.
There is a computer room using Macintosh computers for instruction
and computer literacy classes.
School is in session Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 1:30 pm.
There is a mid-morning break for snacks and recess. The academic
year, which starts in late August and ends in mid June, is divided
into semesters and totals 180 school days. Classes commence in late
August and run through mid-January; the second semester runs from
mid-January through mid-June. There is a 3-week winter holiday
vacation in December-January.
Tuition for the 1999-2000 school year was $1,725 for nursery
school; $2,760 for pre-kindergarten; $11,025 for kindergarten
through grades 8, plus a one-time registration fee of $275 and a
one-time capital development fee of $750 for nursery; $500 for
pre-K; and $2,000 for K-8. This includes all textbooks and
materials. An educational allowance covers tuition and fees for
direct-hire, U.S. Government employees for kindergarten and above.
Round-trip school transportation is provided for children of
Embassy, AID, and DAO employees.
AISB offers a supervised and expanded University of Nebraska
Correspondence Course Study for grades 9-12, supplemented with
French, P.E., Drama, and other coursework. The fees remain the same
as for K-8th grade. Some students choose to stay at post and
complete high school through correspondence courses, which are
offered by a number of American universities. Tutors to assist with
these courses can generally be found.
Questions about the American School should be directed to the
Community Liaison Office coordinator, or to the school (AISB, 2050
Bamako Place, DOS, Washington, D.C. 20521-2050). Telephone for the
school is (223) 224738. Fax (223) 220853. Email: aisb@malinet.ml
The local school system includes a French-language school, Lycee
Francais Libert‚ A, for French citizens and other French-speaking
foreign children. Libert‚ A provides primary classes from the 1st
through 5th grades, and secondary grades equivalent to American
grades 6 through 12. Secondary studies are preparatory to the French
baccalaureate degree. Liberté‚ A will not allow non-French speaking
children into its program. Only if the children have already
attended a French school, will they be permitted admittance.
Generally, students attend Liberté‚ A from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.,
Monday through Saturday, though higher grades do have some afternoon
classes from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., supplemented with French, PE,
Drama and other coursework. Thirty-seven nationalities are
represented, including French, American, German, Malian, Russian,
and others. The school year starts at the beginning of September and
runs to the middle of June. Tuition varies; for elementary grades it
is $1,650; for grades 6-9 it is $2,280; and for grades 10-12 it is
$3,200. All students are also required to pay an $80 registration
fee. With the good exchange rate now, tuition is lower than 3 years
ago. Tel: 223-22-41-23. Fax: 223-22-06-66, Email: liberte@liberte.edu.ml
or www.libertebko.org
Bamako has several French-language pre-schools. Rose et Blue is
not equivalent to an American day-care center; however, it does
provide childcare and play activities for children between the ages
of 1 and 6 years. It is open all year. Les Lutins offers a
pre-school program, which is a preparatory for entrance to Libert‚
A's elementary classes. Les Lutins is open from the beginning of
October through the middle of June. There is generally a waiting
list for admission, so enrollment plans should be made early. E-mail
Mr. Coulibaly, Director, PTA, at: aoua@cefib.com
The American International School has an Early Learning Center.
The nursery program provides daycare service for 2-year-olds within
a safe and caring environment. The emphasis is on sensory-motor
skills and simple symbolic play. The pre-kindergarten concentrates
on social and emotional development. An individual approach is used
to meet the needs of each child and to encourage growth from their
current developmental level in a stimulating and nurturing
atmosphere. The child must be 3 and 4 years of age. The kindergarten
program emphasizes pre-readiness skills utilizing an individual
"play-based" approach. Each child is given the opportunity to
develop at his/her own rate in a child-centered environment. The
child must be the age of 5 by the first day of school.
Away From Post Last Updated: 8/31/2000 6:00 PM Because of the
lack of an English-language secondary school in Mali, an educational
allowance is authorized for children of U.S. Government employees to
attend high school away from post. Many high school-age family
members attend boarding schools in the U.S. and Europe. There are
also two English-language boarding schools in neighboring countries.
One is in Bouake, Côte d'Ivoire, a 1-hour flight from Bamako, and
the other is in Dakar, Senegal, and both are operated by the W.
African Baptist Missionary group. International Christian Academy
offers grades 1-12, with a college preparatory curriculum at the
secondary level. The school has American academic standards, a
supportive staff, and a friendly atmosphere. Admission is open to
any English-speaking child; however, enrollment fills up quickly and
preference is given to children of missionaries. Enrollment plans
should be made well in advance.
Several publications are available to help in the selection of
schools away from post. The Educational Register, a guide to
independent schools and summer programs, is available free from
Vincent/Curtis, 224 Clarendon Street, Boston, MA. Schools Abroad of
Interest to Americans, by Porter Sargent Publishers of Boston, is a
guide to schools outside the U.S. These publications and other
information are available in the Office of Overseas Schools in the
Department of State or in the Community Liaison Office at post.
Other questions about education may be addressed to the educational
counselor of M/FLO at the Department of State.
Special Needs Education Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:23 AM
Special Needs Education
There are no formal, English-language training or educational
facilities for handicapped children in Bamako. On occasion, there
have been teachers at AISB who have had training or experience in
special education, but the school does not have a formal program.
Parents of learning disabled, mentally retarded, blind, or deaf
children should check the current situation when considering this
post.
Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 8/23/2004 4:55 AM
Higher Education Opportunities
The new American Cultural Center has opened and sponsors
lectures, movies, and other presentations. The French Cultural
Center offers movie and concert series, plays, lectures, and
exhibits. It also has a large lending library.
Individual or group lessons in English, French, and Bambara are
available at the OMBEVI language training school sponsored by the
Malian Ministry of Rural Development. Many local private tutors are
also available to teach various foreign languages.
Afternoon music, craft and sports classes are available for
children at the French Cultural Center and American School. Several
local teachers are available to give lessons for piano, flute, and
other musical instruments.
Swimming lessons are offered at the Amiti‚ Hotel. Informal
exercise groups have been organized in several neighborhoods. Tennis
lessons are available at various clubs.
French-language classes, using FSI course methods or "French in
Action," are conducted by native speakers of French at the Embassy
and at USAID free of charge, depending upon availability of funds.
Beginning Bambara lessons are also available. Employees and their
spouses are encouraged to attend.
Other types of classes are taught and various interest groups are
established at different times, depending upon the skills and
interests of individual members of the community.
Recreation and Social Life Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:18 AM
See subsections on Recreation and Social Life.
Sports Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:32 AM
RECREATION AND SOCIAL LIFE
Sports
Americans in Bamako spend a lot of time outdoors, swimming,
golfing, playing tennis, and enjoying other sports and activities.
Sports are usually played early in the morning or in the evening to
avoid the intense heat.
Swimming is a year-round pastime in Bamako and a good way to
"beat the heat." All government-owned and leased houses have
swimming pools. The Sofitel, the Grand Hotel, Hotel Salam, Hotel
Rabelais, Hotel Kempinski, and the Mandé Hotel have larger pools and
sometimes children's wading pools that are open to non-residents for
a small fee.
The nine-hole golf course and clubhouse at the Sofitel Hotel are
open to members and non-members. Quarterly green fees are 225,000
CFA (about $415). Non-members pay 10,000 to 15,000 ($18-27) for the
day, plus a caddie fee of about $5.
Small-boat owners may join the Bamako Canoe Club, which provides
docking and storage. Between July and November, the Niger is high
enough for a boat to travel upriver from Bamako to the Guinea border
and as far north as Timbuktu. When the river level is low (December
to June), the river is not navigable for larger craft (10 hp and
above), but smaller boats can still be used in some places. Members
can enjoy the pleasant riverside bar.
The biggest spectator sport in Mali is soccer. Mali has several
good national teams, whose games are enthusiastically attended.
Every neighborhood has a soccer field and many neighborhood teams.
Games are played on Sundays and any other day that teams can get
together. Basketball is also popular and there are several national
teams.
Expatriates organize Sunday softball games in the cool season.
Some equipment (bases, bats and balls) is often available, but you
should bring your own glove. Bamako has fielded teams to participate
in the various West African softball tournaments including the West
African Invitational Softball Tournament (WAIST), usually held in
February in Dakar, and the SofanWet tournament, held in January in
Ouagadougou. The American community has in recent years organized
Little League and youth softball games between October and February.
A regular Frisbee game on Saturday mornings that is well attended
by expatriates and is open to players of all levels. Some
expatriates currently play cricket on Sundays, and also teach the
game to local schoolchildren on Saturday mornings. A group of mainly
French, British, and other expatriates play rugby in the cool
season. There is also a good Malian rugby team.
The Marine House hosts a number of unofficial functions open to
the American community. The Marines may also organize social/holiday
activities for general community participation, as well as Friday
night movies and occasional family days on Sunday afternoons, when
volleyball, swimming, and table football are available. Mission
employees can use the tennis court, one basketball hoop, and the
exercise/aerobic equipment located on the premises.
The Hash House Harriers, organized by the French community, run
every Saturday late in the afternoon. There are trails for runners
and for walkers. It is a good opportunity to discover the outskirts
of Bamako.
The Bamako Tennis Club and several hotels have tennis courts
available for a fee. An annual tennis tournament is held at the
club. Rates for experienced coaches ($5/hour), practice partners,
and ball boys are quite inexpensive.
The Club Hippique de Bamako (riding club) offers English-style
horse and pony riding and jumping. Annual membership is 80,000 CFA
for an individual or 140,000 for the whole family. Group lessons for
adults and children are 6,000 to 10,000 CFA per hour. Members may
board horses at the club for 80,000 to 110,000 CFA per month.
Non-members may rent horses, with tack provided, at 10,000-15,000
CFA per hour. If you bring your own tack, remember that local horses
are small Arabians, 1.5 to 1.6 meters at the shoulder. Horse races
are also held on Sundays in season at the local Hippodrome.
African dance and salsa, as well as judo, karate and other
martial arts, are taught at several clubs in Bamako.
Jogging is possible, although air pollution, dangerous drivers,
and lack of sidewalks and green space are obstacles. There is a
running machine at the Marine House. Several runners ship treadmill
machines with them.
Fishing is good on the Niger River during the dry season and
large capitaine (Nile perch), carp, and catfish are common catches.
Local fishermen will take you out in their wooden dugout canoes for
a small fee.
Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:32 AM
Touring and Outdoor Activities
The Government of Mali is making an effort to encourage tourism.
A number of private travel agencies have offices in Bamako and in
other cities of interest to tourists. Tours can be arranged through
local travel agents or the hotels.
Be sure to bring photography equipment and film. Photo
opportunities are limitless and varied in Mali. A photo permit is
not required, but photography of airports, bridges, and military
installations is forbidden.
The best time to see the country is during the cool dry season
from November to February. Travel is sometimes difficult in Mali:
many Malian towns can be reached by paved road, but distances are
great. Beyond the paved network, roads are laterite and dirt,
varying from fair to nearly impassable. Four-wheel-drive vehicles
are necessary off the main roads.
Bring camping equipment such as tents, lightweight cots, sleeping
bags, canteens, cooking equipment, camping foods, coolers, etc.
Hotels are found only in the larger cities and towns and, while not
inexpensive, are quite basic. In other areas of Mali, overnight
lodging and cooking facilities are available only at primitive
campements, which may lack indoor toilets, running water, and
electricity.
A few places are close enough to Bamako for day or weekend trips.
Kati, a pleasant little town about 30 minutes from Bamako, has a
colorful market on Sunday mornings. A drive down the Guinea Road to
Siby, 1.5 hours from Bamako, affords views of waterfalls and an
impressive natural stone arch. The Siby market on Saturdays is also
worth a visit. There are a few pleasant outdoor eateries up to 20
miles outside of Bamako, with several adjacent to the river.
The Selingue dam, a 1.5-hour drive south of Bamako is a pleasant
site to spend a day or a weekend. While accommodations are not to
Western standards, there are furnished villas available for rent, a
large swimming pool, a restaurant, and a tennis court nearby in the
small "company town," which once housed employees of the firm which
built the dam. Reservations for food and lodging must be made in
advance. Camping on the lakeshore is also pleasant although it is
not realistic to leave tents unattended as they can be stolen.
Segou, a three-hour drive from Bamako, is located on the right
bank of the Niger River near the spot where the explorer Mungo Park
first saw the river. The city is notable for its red-colored mud
brick walls and the government buildings, built in the Sudanic
architectural style. Heavy hand-knotted wool rugs with Malian
designs are made at the Nieleni rug cooperative in Segou. The
cooperative is open to tourists who may watch as the women card,
spin and dye the wool, and knot the rugs on their looms. Segou also
has a large and colorful market on Mondays.
Mopti, an eight-hour drive from Bamako on a paved road, is
located at the point where the Niger and Bani Rivers meet. It is an
important fishing port, which becomes a city of islands during the
rainy season. The harbor is usually crowded with large pirogues that
ply the river carrying passengers and goods. It is an area of many
different ethnic groups including Bambara, Fulani, Tuareg, and
others. Mopti has a large mosque and a lively market, with a section
reserved for Malian handicrafts including the distinctive Mopti wool
blankets, Fulani wedding blankets, hats, earrings, trade beads,
Tuareg jewelry, leatherwork, and carvings. The Kanaga hotel in Mopti,
modeled after the mud-walled styles of the region's mosques, is
basic but comfortable. An American runs Mac's Refuge, in the nearby
town of Sevare. Prices are reasonable and include a pancake
breakfast.
Djenne, two hours southwest of Mopti, is a major religious center
famous for its imposing mosque, the world's largest mud-brick
building. Three kilometers away are the excavations at Jenne-Jeno
("ancient Djenne"), an important Iron Age site and the oldest known
city in Africa south of the Sahara. Visits can be arranged.
One to two hours' drive from Mopti is the town of Sangha in the
heart of Dogon country, along the Bandiagara cliffs. The rock and
mud cliff dwellings of the Dogon people and the distinctive round
granaries with their conical straw roofs dot the steep, rocky walls
of the Bandiagara escarpment. Clustered into small groups decreed by
tradition, the dwellings blend into the landscape, making them
almost invisible from a distance. The animist Dogon are culturally
distinct from other tribes in Mali, adhering to their own ancient
traditions and beliefs based on a complex system of myths, which
explain and create order in their universe. They are renowned for
their art, and for their dances, which they will perform for
tourists for a fee.
Timbuktu (Tombouctou in French), the fabled city of gold,
legendary for its camel caravans and renowned in the 15th century as
a city of wealth and Moslem scholarship was once the crossroads
between the Arab world to the north and black Africa to the south.
Now a sleepy, sandy town on the edge of the Sahara Desert, Timbuktu
is still worth the visit. The ancient mosques of Djingueriber and
Sankore, as well as the rooming houses of the famous explorers Barth,
Caillié, and Laing can still be seen. Mud-brick houses with latticed
windows and carved wooden doors decorated with metal studs line the
quiet streets. This is also the home base of many Tuareg nomads, the
fierce "Blue Men" of the desert, so-called for their indigo turbans
and robes. Flights from Bamako to Timbuktu usually go once a week,
returning the following day, but can be unreliable and the round
trip costs around $300.
As of 2004, travel by all Americans under Chief of Mission
authority to the areas east of the point where the Mali/Mauritanian
border turns north extending to the Niger River and including all
regions (except the towns of Timbuktu and Gao) north of the Niger
River until it enters Niger requires prior written approval by the
Chief of Mission. Banditry and carjacking continue to plague the
northern regions, which have also become a safe haven for the Group
Salafist for Prayer and Combat (GSPC), a terrorist group seeking the
overthrow of the Algerian government. In these areas, distances
between towns are great and government security forces do not
regularly patrol the roads.
Three riverboats (the "Tombouctou," the "General Soumare," and
the "Kankan Moussa") leave from Koulikoro (an hour north of Bamako)
on Tuesdays and go to Segou (Wednesday), Mopti (Friday), Timbuktu
(Saturday) and Gao (Sunday). Riverboats generally operate between
early September and late November or mid-December, depending on the
depth of the river. The return trip from Gao takes seven days
(against the current). Long delays should be expected in both
directions. Many people travel one-way to Mopti on the boat and
return to Bamako by road. Others board the boat in Mopti after
visiting Djenne and Dogon country. The riverboats are austere and
crowded even in deluxe or first class. It is essential to bring a
week's worth of drinking water, fruit and snacks, although
African-style meals are included in the fare. The one-way trip to
Gao currently costs CFA 283,000 ($525) for deluxe class per person.
While difficult, the trip is a wonderful opportunity to observe the
life of the fishing people and herders along the riverbanks and
maybe even to see hippopotami swimming in the river.
U.S. personnel are encouraged to visit countries in the region to
gain the most out of their tour in Mali. Although air travel is
expensive and timetables often unreliable, you can fly from Bamako
to most of the major cities in neighboring African countries.
It is possible to drive to Ouagadougou (10 hours) and
Bobo-Dioulasso (8 hours) in Burkina Faso, to Niamey, capital of
Niger, and on from these cities to other African countries. The
rocky track to Dakar is not recommended because it is very long and
arduous. Mission staffs are discouraged from taking the Bamako-Dakar
train because of frequent thefts of passports and money. Road trips
into Ivory Coast are currently not permitted because of the conflict
in that country. However, there are several interesting towns and a
game park should peace return.
The designated R&R post for employees assigned to Mali is the
nearest port of entry into the U.S. (New York or Boston) or, for
non-U.S. destinations, Paris.
Entertainment Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:32 AM
Entertainment
The French Cultural Center also sponsors numerous cultural
presentations annually, including popular and classical music, local
theatrical groups, and dance.
The Babemba, a very comfortable and modern movie theater, mainly
offers recent Hollywood movies dubbed in French. The French Cultural
Center presents film series and occasional children's matinees.
Many families in Bamako have VHS video/DVD equipment. The
Commissary runs a VHS video/DVD club, open to all U.S. Mission
employees. The Video Club charges a membership fee of $25 and rental
costs $30 for ten movies. The club has a varied selection of videos
and DVDs including classic films, recent movies, children's films
and cartoons and sporting events. Also, local video/DVD clubs in
town carry movies. French videotapes can be played on SECAM systems
only and local DVDs are on the European system. If you plan to
purchase video equipment, consider buying a multi-system,
multi-speed set. The advantage of DVD players is that one DVD often
offers different language options, so locally rented movies can be
watched in English or French, and subtitles can often be shown in
the other language as a learning tool, or for the benefit of
French-speaking friends.
You will have plenty of time to listen to music and to enjoy
reading. Bring along a good collection of CDs, tapes, and books.
Books in English can be borrowed from the Community Liaison
Office (CLO) lending library. The Commissary plans to add a library
of contemporary books. Children at the American International School
can borrow books in English from the school library. The French
Cultural Center has a large library of books and periodicals in
French and a small collection of books in English. A few local shops
carry a small selection of books in French, and occasionally a few
books in English. Technical books, good dictionaries, and recent
novels are rarely available locally.
Bamako has a number of restaurants that serve African, French,
Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Italian, and Lebanese specialties. A few
cafes and local bakeries serve sandwiches, burgers, pizza, etc.
Brochettes (skewered meat) are widely available. The Kempinski
Hotel, the Sofitel, and the Mandé Hotel offer a Sunday buffet brunch
and the Hotel Salam offers a buffet breakfast. The Broadway Café in
Hippodrome offers pancakes, eggs, shakes, and so on at all hours of
the day and evening. Restaurant reservations are rarely required.
A number of nightclubs and discotheques offer either live
(African original or cover versions) or recorded (largely Western)
dance music. When in Mali, well-known Malian musicians such as Habib
Koité, a popular singer/guitarist, and Toumani Diabaté, a kora
player, perform their compositions locally on weekends in pleasant
open-air clubs that serve food and beer/sodas. Note that concerts
start at around midnight. There is also a casino at the Sofitel.
The small Embassy snack bar, open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Monday to Friday, serves breakfast and lunch. Lunches consist of
sandwiches, burgers, salads, and a daily hot lunch special. U.S.
Government employees often eat lunch there. The concession will
cater on weekends. Local Embassy employees have their own lunch
facility. USAID has a small café that serves hot lunch specials,
soups, and salads during the working week. The NIH café offers hot
lunches Monday to Saturday.
Social Activities Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:37 AM
Social Activities
Social activities among the American community in Bamako are
relaxed and informal. Happy hours, buffets, informal dinners and
barbecues around the pool are popular ways to entertain.
Among Americans Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:35 AM Among Americans
Mission staff also organizes frequent social evenings, such as
bridge and poker game nights and there is a monthly book club, with
contemporary novels and other genres ordered through the pouch. An
International Women's Club meets monthly and organizes visits to
places around town. Individuals often organize group activities and
trips. Recent events have included an Indian cookery class and trips
to visit local fabric dyers.
The expatriate community currently organizes a weekly playgroup
for babies and young children and there are frequent children's
birthday parties, sleepovers, etc.
Rotary and Lions Clubs hold regular meetings in Bamako and
sometimes hold formal charity balls. The Marines hold an annual
formal ball in November.
International Contacts Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:06 AM Nature of
Functions - International Community
Officers at all levels will have many opportunities for
representational entertaining, both for Malians and for other local
diplomats and members of the foreign community. Types of social
entertaining include luncheons, cocktail receptions and dinners.
An ability to converse in French is very important for full
participation in the international social life.
Official Functions Last Updated: 8/23/2004 5:05 AM
Official Functions
The diplomatic community in Bamako is small, and official events
are relatively few. Senior officers may expect to attend, several
times monthly, affairs such as Malian government-sponsored opening
ceremonies, cultural events and seminars, events related to official
state visits, and celebrations of national days of the various
countries represented in Mali.
Social events in Bamako are generally informal; tenue
decontractée (casual dress) is appropriate for most social events,
while tenue de ville (coat and tie) is worn for some official
events. Dress is generally prescribed by invitation. Few occasions
in the course of a year call for formal dress, even among senior
officials.
The spouse and dependents of Mission officers are under no
obligation to assist in official entertaining although voluntary
participation in social and community activities, as well as on
official occasions, is helpful to the Mission and can be personally
rewarding.
Nature of Functions Last Updated: 8/16/2004 8:00 AM
The diplomatic community in Bamako is small, and official events
are relatively few. Senior officers may expect to attend, several
times monthly, affairs such as Malian government-sponsored opening
ceremonies, cultural events and seminars, events related to official
state visits, and celebrations of national days of the various
countries represented in Mali.
Officers at all levels will have many opportunities for
representational entertaining, both for Malians and for other local
diplomats and members of the foreign community. Types of social
entertaining include luncheons, cocktail receptions and dinners.
Social events in Bamako are generally informal; tenue
decontractée (casual dress) is appropriate for most social events,
while tenue de ville (coat and tie) is worn for some official
events. Dress is generally prescribed by invitation. Few occasions
in the course of a year call for formal dress, even among senior
officials.
An ability to converse in French is very important for full
participation in the international social life.
The spouse and dependents of Mission officers are under no
obligation to assist in official entertaining although voluntary
participation in social and community activities, as well as on
official occasions, is helpful to the Mission and can be personally
rewarding.
Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 8/16/2004 7:45 AM
Standards of social conduct in Bamako are informal. Formal
courtesy calls are not expected, except for those that the
Ambassador and DCM normally make on Malian officials and diplomatic
colleagues.
It is not necessary to leave calling cards in Mali, although
business cards are useful. Quality of printing is good, and it is
easy to have business cards made in Bamako upon arrival. Cards may
also be ordered after arrival at post from various stationery
companies in the U.S. that are familiar with Foreign Service
formats.
Small, folded note cards are useful for both invitations and
thank you notes. You may wish to bring your own, although a few
cards with African motifs are available locally.
Special Information Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:38 AM
Post Orientation Program
The Community Liaison Office (CLO) coordinates a voluntary
sponsorship program for newcomers. Sponsors help to prepare the
house for incoming families, meet newcomers at the airport, and help
them to settle in and adjust to life in Bamako. The CLO also
coordinates a formal orientation program for all new arrivals and
their spouses. Newcomers also receive a copy of the Welcome to Mali
booklet and the Health & Medical Information Handbook. The CLO can
provide you with up-to-date information about Bamako if you e-mail
your questions well in advance of arrival. Contact the CLO via email
at: clo@usa.org.ml or via the Department of State internal email
system under CLO, Bamako.
Related Internet Sites Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:39 AM
WORLD WIDE WEB SITES ON MALI
U.S. Government Sites
The Embassy of Mali to the USA http://www.maliembassy-usa.org/
The U.S. Embassy in Mali http://www.usa.org.ml/other.html USAID Mali
http://www.usaid.gov/ml. Peace Corps Mali site http://www.peacecorps.gov
Library of Congress Global Gateway to Mali http://www.loc.gov/rr/international/amed/mali/mali.html
State Dept Consular Sheet http://travel.state.gov/mali.html CDC web
site for West Africa http://www.cdc.gov/travel/malinfo.htm
Tourism The Malian Government's Ministry of Tourism and
Handicrafts site (lots of photos, but a focus on monuments) http://www.tourisme.gov.ml/index.html
The Malian Government's Ministry of Culture site http://www.culture.gov.ml/index.html
Mysterious Places Travel website http://www.mysteriousplaces.com/mali/index.html
Real Post Reports: from those who have lived there http://www.realpostreports.org
Experience Mali site: excellent info with a realistic description of
the main towns. http://w3.experience-mali.org.ml/visit-mali/visit_Mali.htm
A bike adventure tour in Mali with photo essay http://www.ibike.org/bikeafrica/mali.htm
Lonely Planet Guide http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/africa/mali/
Culture Malian languages on the SIL website http://www.ethnologue.com/
Database of African recipes http://www.congocookbook.com Includes
the Babemba cinema schedule (in French) http://www.afribone.net.ml/Sortir/cine/babemba.html
National Museum of Mali http://www.ml.refer.org/musee_national/
Modern Malian music http://www.mali-music.com African South of the
Sahara: Mali (links as diverse as an exhibit of historical postcards
to the Malian programs of various NGOs http://www-sul.stanford.edu/depts/ssrg/africa/mali.htm
Malian-made crafts designed by an American artist http://www.miamali.com
Malian literature, Malian women, and links http://www.arts.uwa.edu.au/AFLIT/CountryMaliEN.html
The French Cultural Center http://www.ccfbko.org.ml/
Schools The French School Liberté in Bamako and Liberté
Elementary School http://www.liberte.edu.ml/ and
http://w3.libertebko.org/elementaire/accueil.htm The American
International School in Bamako http://www.aisbmali.org
Miscellaneous The website of local ISP Afribone, and a good
source of local news and information on Bamako. http://www.afribone.net.ml/
and http://www.afribone.net.ml/en (in English). Mali internet
service links http://www.nsrc.org/db/lookup/ISO=ML The Malian World
Network http://callisto.si.usherb.ca/~malinet/ E-Gouvernance Mali
(In French) http://www.malinet.ml/ Mali Pages Business site http://www.malipages.com
Notes For Travelers
Getting to the Post Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:40 AM
Getting To Post
Include in your accompanying luggage any personal items, which
you might need in the first weeks at post. Don't forget special
medications, important papers, an alarm clock, mosquito repellent,
etc. Some travelers who have hand-carried such items as video
equipment and desktop computers have been required to leave them
with customs officials for several weeks to complete clearance
procedures. If you wish to carry such items, notify the GSO shipping
office, in advance, of the make, model, and cost of the item, and
carry the invoice with you. Even with such precautions, however,
there is no assurance that the items will not be held for customs
clearance. In general, however, personnel with diplomatic status do
not have problems entering Mali.
Contact the travel/transportation division of your employing
agency before packing your airfreight and household effects. They
will notify you with specific advice on the shipment of items to
post.
Unaccompanied airfreight should contain basic items that you will
need to keep house for the two to three months before your household
effects arrive. This should include dishes, glassware, silverware,
pots and pans, kitchen utensils, an iron, linens, clothing, toys,
and baby items. It is good to bring a boom box with radio, CDs and
tapes. Welcome Kits containing essential household items are
supplied to new arrivals until the air-freight shipment is
delivered. Airfreight generally takes 2-4 weeks to arrive.
Airfreight should be shipped directly to Bamako via Paris,
addressed as follows:
Owner's Name American Embassy Bamako, Mali
Consumables shipments should be addressed:
American Ambassador (Owner's initials in parentheses) American
Embassy Bamako, Mali via ELSO in transit
It is important for customs clearance purposes that the
consumables shipment be addressed to "American Ambassador" and not
to "Owner's Name."
Household effects packed properly for overseas shipment by
professional packers usually reach post in good condition. Be sure
that all shipments are packed in sturdy, waterproof wooden
containers. Lift vans (the wooden crates in which the HHE is packed)
are subject to rough handling and so should be constructed durably
and braced inside to protect packed items. Shipments should also be
secured by steel strapping on three axes to add structural integrity
and prevent theft. Lift vans should not exceed the sizes dictated
for shipment by aircraft as household effects and consumables
shipments are shipped by airfreight from Antwerp to Bamako.
Hand-carry to post a detailed packing list or an inventory of all
your freight, which includes an estimate of the dollar value of the
goods and serial numbers contained in the shipments. This can
facilitate customs clearance on household effects and consumables.
Other necessary shipping documents (original bill of lading,
packer's list of contents, measurements and weight of containers)
are generally sent to post by the GSO at the previous post or by the
U.S. Dispatch Agent if shipment originates in the U.S.
Also, hand-carry an extra copy of the inventory as a record in
case of loss. Although the U.S. Government will reimburse losses up
to a certain limit, you should carry private insurance against
damage or loss of personal property.
For other information on packing, shipping and traveling, check
the Foreign Service Assignment Notebook available from the Overseas
Briefing Center.
For information on shipping of privately owned vehicles (POV),
see Transportation, Automobiles.
As of June 2004, personnel are required to attend a one-week
security-training course prior to arrival at post.
Customs, Duties, and Passage Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:44 AM
Customs, Duties, and Passage
It is important for customs clearance purposes that the
consumables shipment be addressed to "American Ambassador" and not
to "Owner's Name."
Household effects packed properly for overseas shipment by
professional packers usually reach post in good condition. Be sure
that all shipments are packed in sturdy, waterproof wooden
containers. Lift vans (the wooden crates in which the HHE is packed)
are subject to rough handling and so should be constructed durably
and braced inside to protect packed items. Shipments should also be
secured by steel strapping on three axes to add structural integrity
and prevent theft. Lift vans should not exceed the sizes dictated
for shipment by aircraft as household effects and consumables
shipments are shipped by airfreight from Antwerp to Bamako.
Hand-carry to post a detailed packing list or an inventory of all
your freight, which includes an estimate of the dollar value of the
goods and serial numbers contained in the shipments. This can
facilitate customs clearance on household effects and consumables.
Other necessary shipping documents (original bill of lading,
packer's list of contents, measurements and weight of containers)
are generally sent to post by the GSO at the previous post or by the
U.S. Dispatch Agent if shipment originates in the U.S.
Also, hand-carry an extra copy of the inventory as a record in
case of loss. Although the U.S. Government will reimburse losses up
to a certain limit, you should carry private insurance against
damage or loss of personal property.
For other information on packing, shipping and traveling, check
the Foreign Service Assignment Notebook available from the Overseas
Briefing Center.
For information on shipping of privately owned vehicles (POV),
see Transportation, Automobiles.
As of June 2004, personnel are required to attend a one-week
security-training course prior to arrival at post.
Passage Last Updated: 8/16/2004 7:47 AM
For diplomatic passport holders, visas are required prior to
entry into Mali. Both the Malian Embassy in Washington and the
Malian Mission to the UN in New York issue visas. Airport visas may
be arranged only for employees on a direct transfer from another
country who cannot obtain a Malian visa. You must contact your
agency at post to arrange for airport visas. For those traveling on
tourist passports, a visa may be obtained at the airport. The cost
is currently 15,000 CFA.
After arrival, persons holding diplomatic or official passports
are required to obtain one-year, multiple-entry visas. Persons with
regular passports must obtain short-term or resident visas on entry
and exit visas on leaving the country.
Official Americans are issued Malian identity cards. It is a good
idea to bring at least six extra passport-sized photos for the ID
and the visa extension. ID photos for visas for out-of-country
travel can be taken locally.
Pets Last Updated: 8/16/2004 7:48 AM
Mali has no quarantine restrictions for pets; however, proof of
rabies vaccination and a current certificate of good health must
accompany pets entering the country. It is therefore important to
carry an immunization record for your pet. Dogs and cats are
required to have yearly rabies shots. Basic veterinary services and
routine immunizations are available through several private
veterinarians.
Owners wishing to ship pets should contact all airlines on which
a pet is to fly to find current information and to make arrangements
several months in advance of the flight. Delta Airlines notes that
arranging for pets to transit France takes about four months.
Delta's pets web page for is: http://www.delta.com/travel/special_services/pet_travel/,
but it is important to speak with a representative to confirm
arrangements. It is also useful to contact the embassy or consulate
of the destination country to be aware of their regulations. If
coming from the U.S., the State Department has a list of agencies
that can ship pets for you.
Airline restrictions currently prohibit pets from being shipped
to many airports between the months of May and September because of
the risk of heatstroke. Pets must be booked on flights well in
advance: you should indicate to the airline when you book your
flight your intention of traveling with a pet. You will incur an
excess baggage charge for your pet, payable for each leg of your
itinerary. To determine the cost of transportation for your pet,
contact the appropriate airlines in advance.
On some airlines, certain smaller pets may fly in the cabin as
excess baggage, but certain others, and usually all animals weighing
over five kilograms (about 11 pounds), must be transported in the
hold of flights you are traveling on.
The cage you must provide for transporting a pet in the hold must
be large enough for the pet to be able to stand, to turn around, and
to lie down naturally. Wire mesh or weld mesh containers are
forbidden for international air transport; only securely built
shell-shaped containers made of fiberglass or rigid plastic and
locked to be tooth and claw-resistant will be accepted.
At time of writing, to enter or transit France with a pet you
will have to show that your pet has been tattooed (series of numbers
and/or letters pricked and stained with indelible ink inside the
ear) or has a microchip implant for identification purposes. You
will also need to show a health certificate (certificat sanitaire,
issued no more than 10 days before transportation) and rabies
vaccination certificate issued by an official veterinary surgeon
stating that rabies vaccination has been made more than 30 days and
less than one year ago or revaccination within one year. The phone
number for the veterinary office at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport
is 33 01 4864 9862; and the fax number is 33 01 4864 6936
When transiting Paris, you need several hours between flights and
must keep on your person all documents (for you and your animal)
required to enter France, as well as of those for your final
destination.
It is important to note that some ethnic groups in Mali are known
to eat cats and/or use them for black magic. A number of outdoor
cats, particularly fleshier Western animals and those with ginger
fur, have disappeared or have returned with their skin badly cut
around the joints.
Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:40 AM
Firearms and Ammunition
U.S. Government personnel assigned to Bamako must obtain explicit
prior approval from the Chief of Mission to import firearms. The
importation of firearms must be in strict accordance with local laws
as well as the post's firearm policy. Malian Government procedures
for clearance of arms and ammunition are, at best, complicated and
drawn out, and there is no assurance that permission will be granted
for importation. Contact the Regional Security Officer regarding
present limitations on types of arms and ammunition allowed,
clearance procedures, and shipping regulations before making any
plans to bring in firearms.
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated:
8/16/2004 9:46 AM
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures
Mali is a part of the West African Monetary Union (known in
French as UMOA), whose members use the CFA (Communauté Financière
Africaine) Franc, a convertible currency tied to the Euro. In June
2004, the average exchange rate was 540 CFA = $1.
The CFA group of countries includes Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory
Coast, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Guinea Bissau, and Togo. The CFA franc
is valid in all these countries. The CFA community has its own
central issuing bank; however, the monetary reserves of the CFA
countries are held on deposit in the French Treasury.
The metric system is used as the standard system of weights and
measures.
The Embassy and USAID provide accommodation exchange services for
American employees and official visitors through cashier facilities.
Local currency can be obtained from the cashier by a personal
check written on a U.S. bank, dollar traveler's checks, money
orders, or U.S. currency. Checks can be cashed for CFA francs up to
a daily maximum of $500 unless otherwise approved in advance.
Dollars as available are paid out only for official travel outside
of West Africa.
Banking services such as checking accounts are available through
several local banks, but procedures are cumbersome and slow, and
hence are rarely used by Americans. Payments for local purchases are
generally made in cash, except in the larger stores where checks for
CFA francs or Euros are accepted. Employees coming to Bamako should
maintain a checking account in the U.S., as dollar checks are needed
to obtain local currency from the Embassy cashier and to make
payments to mail order companies and creditors in the U.S. The USG
requires all pay to be deposited directly into your personal bank
account.
Travelers checks are accepted by banks, airlines, and hotels but
not in local shops. American dollar traveler's checks are usually
available in the Commissary. Euro traveler's checks may be purchased
at several banks in Bamako, including at the Bank where the Embassy
maintains its account but it may be easier and less expensive to
bring a supply from home.
Credit cards are not widely accepted in Mali. The larger hotels
will take American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Diner's Club.
International airlines such as Air France accept several credit
cards. However, credit card theft and abuse is common in this region
and it is therefore inadvisable to carry credit cards or to give the
number out here. Credit cards are useful to purchase items on-line
or by phone from the U.S. but like cash and checks, they should at
other times be kept in a safe at home and only taken out when
needed.
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 8/16/2004
9:46 AM
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property
Official and diplomatic personnel are exempt from Malian income
taxes or excise levies, other than airport departure taxes and
restaurant consumption taxes.
Employees need Embassy permission to sell personal property or
vehicles and sales are subject to certain restrictions. The
Embassy's General Services Office must submit a yearly request to
the Government of Mali for blanket permission to allow official
employees to sell property that has been imported into Mali duty
free. According to the terms of this exoneration, the property in
question must have been brought into Mali for personal use and have
been in the country for at least 20 months before resale. Also,
employees who wish to sell items must be scheduled to depart
permanently.
In order to sell an automobile, you must have the original
importation documents and registration papers (Carte Grise) for the
vehicle. An automobile may be sold to a person without duty-free
status; however, the buyer must pay the necessary customs duties and
taxes to the Government of Mali. GSO (or EXO for USAID) generally
handles the formalities for sales of automobiles by official
employees. The buyer must complete customs clearance and
registration procedures before conclusion of the sale and release of
the vehicle by GSO/EXO.
Recommended Reading Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:47 AM
Recommended Reading
Many of the following books can be found on the internet.
Otherwise, these books are available only from a good library such
as the State Department library or (if still in print) direct from
the publisher. Consult Books in Print at your local library for
publisher's addresses.
These titles are a selection of general works published on Mali.
The Department of State does not endorse unofficial publications.
Travel Guides and Travelogues
Caillié, René. 1968. Travels through Central Africa to Timbuctoo.
Frank Cass.
Else, David, et al. 2004. Africa on a shoestring (10th Edition).
Lonely Planet Publications. (ISBN: 1740594622; US$33.99. A
backpacker's definitive guide.)
Fitzpatrick, Mary. 2002. West Africa (5th Edition). Lonely Planet
Publications. (ISBN: 1740592492; US$29.99. The definitive travel
guide to the region, with very good section on Mali.)
Joris, Lieve, Mali Blues, 1998. Lonely Planet Publications. (A
colorful modern travelogue of Mali from a Dutch woman.)
Velton, Ross. 2000. Mali: The Bradt travel guide. Guilford, CT:
The Globe Pequot Press. (The only English-language guide dedicated
to Mali, it became quickly outdated.)
History
Bovill, E.W. 1994. The golden trade of the Moors, Markus Wiener
Publishing. Classic account of early trans-Saharan trade.
Chu, Daniel, and Elliott Skinner. 1996. A glorious age in Africa;
The story of three great African empires. Africa World Press.
De Gramont, Sanche. 1976. The strong brown God. Boston, MA:
Houghton Mifflin Co. (A history of Niger River exploration, in
highly readable form. Out of print, but possible to find in
bookstores.)
Imperato, Pascal James. 1996. Historical dictionary of Mali.
Africa historical dictionaries, No. 11. 2nd ed. Metuchen, NJ:
Scarecrow Press. (Up-to-date reference work on Malian history,
geography and personalities, also with a comprehensive
bibliography.)
Miner, Horace. 1953. The primitive city of Timbuctoo. Princeton,
NJ: Princeton University Press. (An anthropologist's account of the
famous old city just after World War II. Out of print.)
Perimbam, B. Marie, Shula Marks (Editor). 2000. Family identity
and the state in the Bamako Kafu c. 1800 - 1900. Westview Press.
Language
Imperato, Pascal James. 1983. Buffoons, queens and wooden
horsemen: The Dyo and Gouan societies of the Bambara of Mali. Kilima
House.
Ouattara, Mouhamadou. 1992. Essential Bambara: For
English-speaking travelers. Osborne Communications.
Religion
Brenner, Louis. West African Sufi. 1984. Berkeley: University of
California Press. (Historical study of Islam in Mali by a leading
scholar of the subject.)
Griaule, Marcel. 1990. Conversations with Ogotemmeli: An
introduction to Dogon religious ideas. Oxford, UK: Oxford University
Press. (One of many works on the Dogon by this French scholar. Out
of print, but available on the internet.)
Art and Architecture
Ezra, Kate. Art of the Dogon. 1998. Selections from the Lester
Wunderman Collection. Yale University Press,
Lawal, Ibironke (Ed.). 1995. Metalworking in Africa south of the
Sahara. Greenwood Publishing. Group Inc.
O'Toole, Thomas (Ed.). Mali in pictures. Lerner Publishing. 1990.
Ethnic Studies
Cornell, Christine. 2000. The Dogon of West Africa. Rosen
Publishing. Group.
Van Beek, Walter, E. A. 2001. Dogon: Africa's people of the
cliffs. New York, NY: Harry N. Abrams, Inc. (Photographs and text on
the culture of the cliff-dwelling Dogon people.)
Political/Development
Bingen, R.J., Robinson, D., & Staatz, J. 2000. Democracy and
development in Mali. Michigan State Univ. Press.
Coquery-Vidrovitch, Catherine, and David Maisel (Translator).
1992, May. "Africa: Endurance and change south of the Sahara."
University of California Press.
Dettwyler, Katherine A. 1994. Dancing Skeletons: Life and death
in West Africa. Waveland Press, Inc.: Ill.
Gann, Lewis H. and Duignan, Peter. 1981, January. "Africa south
of the Sahara: The challenge to Western security". Hoover
Institution Press.
Lucke, Lewis. 1999. Waiting for rain: Life and development in
Mali, W. Africa. Christopher Publishing House.
Miscellaneous
Auster, Paul. 2000.Timbuktu. St. Martin's Press.
Brooks, Larry, and Ray Webb (Illustrator). 1999.Daily life in
ancient and modern Timbuktu. Learner Publishing. Group.
Condé, Maryse. 1998. Segou. Penguin USA: New York. (A
best-selling novel based on the history of a Malian family from the
last great pre-colonial kingdom.)
Courlander, Harold, and Ousmane Seko. 1994. The heart of the
Ngoni: Heroes of the African kingdom of Segu. University of
Massachusetts Press. (Traditional history from the kingdom of Segou.)
Culhane, K. (Ed.) 2003. Mali: Cuisine and culture. USAID/Mali.
(Local recipes from across Mali, from Steamed Boiled Millet to
Spiced Oily Tomato Sauce.)
Europa Publications: Bernan Associates. Africa south of the
Sahara 2000. 1999. Author.
Imperato, Pascal James. 1975. A Wind in Africa: A story of modern
medicine in Mali. St. Louis: Warren H. Green. (Memoirs of the
author's five years as a USAID epidemiologist in Mali.)
Imperato, Pascal James. 1977. African folk medicine: Practices
and beliefs of the Bambara and other peoples. Baltimore: York Press.
Jackson, Elizabeth, and Paul Quinn (Illustrator). 1999. South of
the Sahara: Traditional Cooking from the lands of West Africa.
Hollis, NH: Fantail.
McIntosh, Susan and Roderick. 1982, September. "Finding West
Africa's Oldest City." National Geographic Magazine Vol. 162, No. 3,
pp. 396-418. (Article on Mali's most significant archeological
site.)
Serle, William and Gerard J. Morel. 1977. A field guide to the
birds of West Africa. London: Collins. (First-rate field guide to
Mali's diverse bird life.)
van Maydell, H.J. Trees and shrubs of the Sahel. 1986. Eschsborn,
Germany: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ).
(A guide to "the bush" published by the West German AID program.
Along with the Serle and Morel bird book, this is a useful reference
for those working in Mali's rural areas.
WORLD WIDE WEB SITES ON MALI
U.S. Government Sites
The Embassy of Mali to the USA http://www.maliembassy-usa.org/
The U.S. Embassy in Mali http://www.usa.org.ml/other.html USAID Mali
http://www.usaid.gov/ml. Peace Corps Mali site http://www.peacecorps.gov
Library of Congress Global Gateway to Mali http://www.loc.gov/rr/international/amed/mali/mali.html
State Dept Consular Sheet http://travel.state.gov/mali.html CDC web
site for West Africa http://www.cdc.gov/travel/malinfo.htm
Tourism The Malian Government's Ministry of Tourism and
Handicrafts site (lots of photos, but a focus on monuments) http://www.tourisme.gov.ml/index.html
The Malian Government's Ministry of Culture site http://www.culture.gov.ml/index.html
Mysterious Places Travel website http://www.mysteriousplaces.com/mali/index.html
Real Post Reports: from those who have lived there http://www.realpostreports.org
Experience Mali site: excellent info with a realistic description of
the main towns. http://w3.experience-mali.org.ml/visit-mali/visit_Mali.htm
A bike adventure tour in Mali with photo essay http://www.ibike.org/bikeafrica/mali.htm
Lonely Planet Guide http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/africa/mali/
Culture Malian languages on the SIL website http://www.ethnologue.com/
Database of African recipes http://www.congocookbook.com Includes
the Babemba cinema schedule (in French) http://www.afribone.net.ml/Sortir/cine/babemba.html
National Museum of Mali http://www.ml.refer.org/musee_national/
Modern Malian music http://www.mali-music.com African South of the
Sahara: Mali (links as diverse as an exhibit of historical postcards
to the Malian programs of various NGOs http://www-sul.stanford.edu/depts/ssrg/africa/mali.htm
Malian-made crafts designed by an American artist http://www.miamali.com
Malian literature, Malian women, and links http://www.arts.uwa.edu.au/AFLIT/CountryMaliEN.html
The French Cultural Center http://www.ccfbko.org.ml/
Schools The French School Liberté in Bamako and Liberté
Elementary School http://www.liberte.edu.ml/ and
http://w3.libertebko.org/elementaire/accueil.htm The American
International School in Bamako http://www.aisbmali.org
Miscellaneous The website of local ISP Afribone, and a good
source of local news and information on Bamako. http://www.afribone.net.ml/
and http://www.afribone.net.ml/en (in English). Mali internet
service links http://www.nsrc.org/db/lookup/ISO=ML The Malian World
Network http://callisto.si.usherb.ca/~malinet/ E-Gouvernance Mali
(In French) http://www.malinet.ml/ Mali Pages Business site http://www.malipages.com
Local Holidays Last Updated: 8/16/2004 9:47 AM
LOCAL HOLIDAYS
All employees of the U.S. Mission in Mali observe both Malian and
American holidays. Shops and government offices are closed on local
holidays. Personnel arriving at post need not schedule arrival to
avoid holidays: the Embassy will arrange for airport assistance.
Official local holidays observed by the Mission are:
Local holidays (2004): January 1 New Year's Day January 20 Armed
Forces Day March 26 Day of Democracy April 12 Easter Monday May 1
International Labor Day May 25 Africa Day September 22 Independence
Day December 25 Christmas Day
Islamic Holidays: (dates vary according to the lunar calendar)
End of the holy month of Ramadan (Id al-kibir), currently November
Tabaski (The feast of the sacrifice, or Id al-fitr), currently
February Mawloud, the Prophet's baptism, currently March
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