10/08/2021 Mali (International Christian Concern) – The Malian Armed Forces announced that at least sixteen soldiers were killed on Wednesday in an attack on central Mali’s Mopti region.

“Wednesday’s attack – one of the heaviest losses suffered by Malian troops in recent months – highlights worsening security in Mali despite efforts by local, European and UN forces to counter armed groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State,” wrote Reuters.

Since a coup attempt in 2012, jihadists have had control over much of northern Mali and have been able to recruit and train their insurgents there. They have overtaken areas with weak governmental leadership and have capitalized on vulnerabilities created by COVID-19.

Please pray for Mali’s leaders to fight for religious freedom, for the Lord to strengthen and multiply the country’s Christian community, and for jihadist groups to repent and accept the gospel of our Lord Jesus.

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