As the rainy season intensifies across West Africa, attention in Mali is sharply focused on the robust measures being implemented to mitigate potential new floods and prevent a recurrence of the devastating 2024 disaster. This proactive approach aims to safeguard communities in the capital, Bamako, from future deluges.
More than 300 kilometers of drainage channels and collectors are slated for cleaning across the Malian capital. This extensive clearing campaign, a critical component of Mali’s flood prevention strategy, recently commenced in the district of Bamako. The national budget is funding the operation, which carries a substantial cost of 3.5 billion FCFA.
While this initiative offers a glimmer of hope, it also stirs apprehension among residents. Ismaël, a local mason, voiced a common concern, noting that drainage cleaning projects in Mali often remain unfinished:
“This is a commendable effort. However, when the channels are cleared, it’s crucial to ensure that the extracted debris isn’t left at the roadside but is transported to its final disposal site. Otherwise, during heavy rains, the debris could be washed back into the drains, clogging them once more and potentially causing new floods. This would render the work incomplete.”
Ensuring Natural Water Flow
Beyond the vital drainage cleaning, another critical campaign is underway, focusing on clearing riverbeds and easements along watercourses. This operation targets 700 illicit constructions and 11 natural waterways, aiming to prevent catastrophes and facilitate the natural flow of rainwater. Experts believe this measure is key to effective Mali flood prevention.
Samassé Traoré, an engineer specializing in sustainable development, expressed optimism that this operation could yield significant results in mitigating flood risks.
“When we completely and effectively clear the rainwater runoff zones, this action can only lead to positive outcomes. It’s essential to sufficiently clear both the minor and major riverbeds, along with their surroundings, so that during rainfall, all water can naturally drain from smaller rivers into the larger fleuve (river) without excessive overflow. Failing to clear these easements leaves the door open for floods to recur.”
The memory of the 2024 floods looms large, as Mali experienced its most severe inundation since 1967. Official figures from authorities indicated over 250,000 displaced individuals, predominantly women and children. The disaster claimed dozens of lives and resulted in the collapse of thousands of homes, underscoring the urgency of Bamako’s current affairs regarding environmental resilience and this crucial Mali flood prevention initiative.