Mali has imposed a ban on the use of motorcycles with engine capacities of 125cc and above outside major urban centres as the country continues to grapple with a worsening jihadist insurgency, according to a government order broadcast on national television.
The measure targets a key mode of transport frequently used by jihadist groups operating across the country, which has been facing a deepening security crisis and a blockade of the capital, Bamako.
Under the directive read out Wednesday evening, the movement of 125cc and above motorcycles outside major cities has been suspended nationwide. However, exceptions have been made for Bamako, regional capitals, and select urban areas.
Authorities also announced a broader ban on the import, transit, sale, marketing, and free distribution of motorcycles of 125cc and above, along with their spare parts and accessories.
The decision comes in the wake of large-scale coordinated attacks on the ruling military authorities on April 25 and 26, involving Al-Qaeda-linked militants and Tuareg separatist groups.
Since April 30, jihadist fighters have reportedly blocked key routes leading to Bamako, setting fire to dozens of buses and freight trucks, further tightening pressure on transport and supply lines.
In the north, armed groups have also taken control of several areas, including the strategic town of Kidal, marking a significant setback for the military junta that came to power in 2020.
On the other hand, in another African country, Democratic Republic of Congo, serious concerns were raised by the World Health Organisation due to the scale and speed of the deadly outbreak of Ebola virus.
WHO warned that the crisis could continue for the coming months. Infections can rapidly spread across conflict hit-regions.
The rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus is causing the outbreak. The new outbreak has already killed 130 people and also affected hundreds of people.
The scale of the spread has forced WHO to declare it an international health emergency.
Also read: WHO declares Ebola outbreak a global health emergency
