Mali Bans Circulation of Jeune Afrique Over Alleged “Subversive” Reporting

Malian authorities have banned the circulation, sale, and distribution of the French-language magazine Jeune Afrique across the country, accusing the publication of spreading what they describe as false and destabilising information.

The decision was announced on Friday by Mali’s Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralisation, Major General Abdoulaye Maïga. Authorities said the ban follows recent articles touching on disruptions to fuel supplies and content they claim amounts to an “apology for terrorism.”

In an official document dated January 6 and made public by the government, the authorities accused the magazine of publishing misleading and unbalanced reports related to Mali’s constitution, the revised Transition Charter, media regulations, and issues of public order.
The statement further alleged that Jeune Afrique made unfounded claims and failed to observe journalistic neutrality, particularly in its reporting on the governments of countries belonging to the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) and on the Burkinabè armed forces.

Malian officials also criticised the publication for what they termed a lack of objectivity, accusing it of bias, defamatory narratives, and incitement to hostility. The government warned that anyone who violates the ban will face sanctions in accordance with existing laws, noting that the measure takes effect immediately.

At the time of reporting, Jeune Afrique had not issued an official response.
The magazine now joins a growing list of international media outlets barred or suspended in Mali. Several French broadcasters, including RFI, France 24, TV5 Monde, France 2, TF1, and LCI, have previously been removed from broadcast packages following decisions by Mali’s High Authority for Communication (HAC).