The following is an adapted excerpt from a report received on April 4 from Mali’s field leader for The Alliance, describing the situation in the country and the status of Alliance workers’ evacuations.
Updated: April 9, 2012
Things seem fairly calm in Bamako, Mali’s capital city, and in Koutiala (southeast Mali), following sanctions that were imposed this week after Mali’s army staged a coup last month.
Banks are now limiting hours and amounts of cash that can be withdrawn. Some banks have closed. Lines at gas stations are long, but so far fuel is still available.
Evacuations
More missions personnel from other groups are evacuating. Currently, about 34 Alliance workers and youth have safely withdrawn from the troubled nation.
“Keep praying for the handful of international Alliance workers who continue to minister in Mali and for our many partner churches and Malian Alliance leaders!” requested Bob Fetherlin, vice president for Alliance International Ministries.
Although the Guinea, Senegal, and Burkina borders still seem to be passable, no one knows for how long. According to one report, the 15 countries that comprise the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are pressuring these nations to close their borders. Bamako’s airport is still open.
The chief of police in Koutiala has assured us that there is no imminent danger. Police are patrolling and checking the hospital regularly; they will keep us informed of any developments.
National Alliance leaders in Mali have been informed about our decision to evacuate staff, and they all are very supportive. I have assured them that we are committed to returning our personnel to Mali as soon as we can.
Please Pray
Thank you for continuing to pray for the team; please keep praying for:
- -Peace and a resolution in the government that is now under the rule of the military junta;
- -The suffering of so many, especially in the north where we are hearing reports of killings and rapes by rebel soldiers;
- -Peace of mind for international workers who have evacuated;
- -A special anointing and portion of divine health, energy, and grace for those in Koutiala keeping the hospital running.
What You Can Do
Funds are needed to cover the costs of moving U.S. Alliance staff in Mali to neighboring countries during this time of conflict and uncertainty. Expenses include travel costs, temporary housing, and travel and communication within Mali to make all the needed arrangements for our personnel. Please make a donation today.
For more articles about Alliance ministry in Mali, go to www.alliancelife.org