Malians recently observed a truly exceptional Eid al-Adha celebration, locally known as Tabaski, under a heavy cloud of apprehension. This somber mood follows the sophisticated attack on April 25, an incident that profoundly shook the military regime and led to the demise of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. Adding to the tension, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) had issued a menacing warning of a “final assault” on Bamako, aiming to destabilize the ruling junta.

Jihadist factions frequently choose Muslim holidays for their military operations, driven by the conviction that such timing amplifies the divine favor bestowed upon their actions.

This year, the traditional Eid sacrifice of sheep has become an unattainable luxury for most households across Mali, from bustling cities to remote rural areas. This scarcity is a direct consequence of the immense pressure exerted by armed groups. In the countryside, these groups either impose a “tax” by seizing a portion of livestock or outright confiscate entire herds for resale. In Bamako, they have declared a city-wide boycott—a tactic previously employed in Burkina Faso and other Malian towns. While Malian security forces strive to keep most supply routes open, preventing a complete blockade, this persistent boycott significantly impacts the morale and daily lives of Bamako residents.

Exorbitant livestock prices were also noted in Niamey, the capital of Niger, which has been grappling with relentless attacks in its western regions—traditionally vital sources of cattle. These assaults, orchestrated by GSIM and the Islamic State in the Sahel, have targeted numerous military and civilian sites in recent days, resulting in a tragic toll of casualties. These groups have capitalized on the strategic vacuum created by the Nigerien army’s deployment further north, where forces are mobilizing for a planned counter-offensive aimed at retaking Kidal.