The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks that struck multiple locations in the Republic of Mali on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
In a statement issued on Sunday, April 26, the regional bloc described the coordinated assaults as heinous, warning that they highlight the growing threat posed by extremist groups to peace, security, and stability across West Africa.
Reports indicate that Mali’s Defence Minister, General Sadio Camara, was among those killed during the attacks on military installations nationwide.
ECOWAS expressed grave concern over the persistent insecurity in the region, stressing that instability in Mali has wider implications for neighbouring countries.
“These heinous acts demonstrate once again the barbaric nature of the perpetrators who continue to threaten peace, security, and stability in the West African sub-region as a whole,” the statement said.
The organisation called for urgent and coordinated action, urging member states, security agencies, and citizens across the sub-region to unite in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
“ECOWAS calls on all states, security forces, regional mechanisms, and populations of West Africa to unite and mobilise in a coordinated effort to combat this scourge,” it added.
The bloc also extended condolences to the families of victims and expressed solidarity with the people and government of Mali.
Mali has faced prolonged insecurity since 2012, with terrorist activities persisting despite interventions by international forces, including the United Nations peacekeeping mission and French-led operations.
ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to working with Mali and other member states to pursue lasting solutions to the region’s security challenges.
