Mali - They Say, We Say...

Other countries say...

"Mali's northern regions have become a safe haven for the Group Salafist for Prayer and Combat (GSPC), a terrorist group seeking the overthrow of the Algerian government. In February 2003, a GSPC faction moved into Mali's far north with 15 European hostages; one hostage died and 14 were subsequently released to Malian authorities. The continued presence of the GSPC and other armed groups presents potential dangers to travelers. Northern Mali hosts several annual music festivals in the desert, including one north of Timbuktu at Essakane, one outside Kidal and another near Menaka. These are official events sanctioned by the Government of Mali." US State Department

"If you travel to the north or west of Timbuktu, against our advice, you are strongly advised to fly. If travelling overland in this area, it is essential to plan your journey in advance and inform local authorities (police and/or army) before leaving Bamako. A local driver/guide is also recommended. In all cases, travel after dark should be avoided." UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Mali says...

"If BT cotton is so profitable, why do they have to subsidise their cotton farmers with billions of dollars in the United States? Our farmers in West Africa achieve record production using just their digging sticks and regular seeds and they have great difficulty selling what they produce, because subsidies in America and Europe have made the world price for cotton fall. So why do they come now with their GMOs and technology to solve a problem that they created? It's a big farce!" Professor Asseto Samake, member of the Coalition to Protect Mali's Genetic Heritage that formed when word leaked from IER about the USAid-funded project on BT (genetically modified) crops. USAID, Monsanta and Syngenta are involved in a project promoting BT crops in Mali, the world's biggest cotton producer.