Mali Roundup: Severed Ukraine ties, heat wave, insecurity

Impact of heat waves

Countries like the Philippines, India, and Mali lack reliable data on heat-related deaths, making it difficult to mitigate the risks of extreme heat. Globally, 2.41 billion workers are exposed to excessive heat, causing nearly 19,000 deaths a year, according to the International Labour Organisation. Accurate data on heat-related deaths is difficult to obtain, especially in low-income countries, leading to undercounting. This lack of data is considered a public health failure and poses a significant challenge in addressing the impact of heat waves, reports The Japan Times.

Mali cuts ties with Ukraine

Mali has cut diplomatic ties with Ukraine over allegations that Kyiv aided an attack by armed groups in which Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries suffered heavy losses. Ukraine, however, denies the accusations, and the move follows a similar rebuke from Senegal. As reported by Africanews, this comes at a time of fraying relations between the West and coup-affected Sahel nations.

Insecurity affecting businesses

Anthony Osijo, the new CEO of Bboxx, is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel. He notes that political instability is making it increasingly difficult for Bboxx to secure financing for projects in affected areas. The Africa Report highlights that the solar power provider is currently assessing the safety of continuing operations in Mali and Burkina Faso. According to the UN's Security Council Report in July, the security situation remains "dire" in parts of the Sahel, particularly in the Liptako-Gourma region of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Former forfeits benefits

Former Mali prime minister Moussa Mara has given up his R22,000 (USD1,183) monthly pension, saying the poor need it more. Mali, one of the world's poorest nations, has a poverty rate of 44.4%. The country is facing economic challenges and political unrest, with a junta government in power since 2020 and failing to meet deadlines for a return to civilian authority, reports News24.

Ukraine condemns Mali

Ukraine condemned Mali's hasty decision to cut ties over a recent attack. Mali accused Ukraine of involvement in an attack that killed soldiers and Russian mercenaries, but Ukraine denies any involvement and calls the decision unfriendly. According to DH, the diplomatic spat is not expected to have serious consequences for Ukraine's global relations.