Mali: “slaves by descent” abused and humiliated by “nobles”

Published on : 11/02/2021 – 15:22

Forced labor and servitude were abolished in Mali in 1905, but traditional social castes based on “slavery by descent” still persist in this country, particularly in the region of Kayes, where some claim to be classy. “noble” who, if she does not consider that she owns the “slaves”, makes them suffer severe discrimination.

These so-called “slaves” are in fact the descendants of former slaves in Mali, and they often live apart from other citizens. They are not allowed to marry outside of their caste, cannot hold managerial positions, and are expected to cook and slaughter animals for nobles during festivals.

Several associations campaign to put an end to these practices, but those who dare to oppose slavery based on descent are regularly victims of violent attacks, humiliation and abuse.

In this program of the Observers, we come back to the facts which took place in Souroubiré, in Mali, on September 28, when an anti-slavery association organized a celebration for the independence of the country. Despite obtaining permission from the local authorities to organize their party, the group of “slaves” was attacked by a group of armed “nobles”.

A witness to the attack, who was able to escape, gave us his story. We also spoke to Mahamadi Kanouté, secretary general of the Association against Domination and Slavery (ACDE), who explains that such attacks are not new. Tensions have existed between slaves and nobles for years, even more since 2019 when anti-slavery associations began to form.

Mahamadi Kanouté also assures that his association is seeking to take legal action against the attackers of Souroubiré, in the hope that, unlike previous attacks, the perpetrators will be held responsible.

>> Also find our Direct Line report in 2019 on the same subject: