Country Profile: Mali

Mali is a landlocked country located in interior Western Africa, characterized by a predominantly flat rolling terrain with various climatic zones ranging from subtropical to arid. The population, estimated at over 22 million, is diverse, with significant segments of the population residing in urban areas such as the capital, Bamako. The economy is largely dependent on agriculture and gold exports, facing challenges from political instability, extreme poverty, and security issues. Mali operates as a semi-presidential republic and has experienced a turbulent governance history marked by military coups.

Geography

Mali is situated in interior Western Africa, bordered by Algeria to the north and several other countries to the south and west, with no coastline due to its landlocked status. The country's vast area encompasses diverse landscapes, including flat plains, savanna regions, and rugged hills. Mali's climate is largely arid, with a distinct wet season and dry season influencing agricultural practices.

1,240,192 sq km total area
7,908 km of land boundaries
35.5% of land is agricultural
20,002 sq km of water bodies
8.8% forest cover
5 major rivers, including the 4,200 km long Niger River

People and Society

Mali's population, projected at 22,634,423 in 2025, is ethnically diverse, with the Bambara being the largest group. The country has a young demographic, with a median age of 16.5 years and a high birth rate of 39.44 births per 1,000 people. The majority of Malians practice Islam, with a smaller percentage adhering to Christianity and traditional beliefs. Urbanization is on the rise, with 46.2% of the population living in urban areas as of 2023.

46.8% of the population is aged 0-14 years
63.2 years life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)
4.57% annual urbanization rate (2020-25 est.)
93.9% of the population is Muslim
35.5% literacy rate as of 2018
15.9% of women married by age 15 (2018)

Economy

Mali's economy is classified as a low-income, predominantly agricultural economy with significant gold exports. The country has faced recession and high public debt exacerbated by political instability and the impacts of COVID-19. Despite these challenges, Mali's GDP is expected to grow by 5% in 2024, with agriculture comprising 33.4% of the GDP.

Real GDP (PPP) of $71.253 billion (2024 est.)
GDP per capita approximately $2,900 (2024 est.)
44.6% of the population lives below the poverty line (2021 est.)
3.1% unemployment rate (2024 est.)
4.2% education expenditure as a percentage of GDP (2023)

Government

Mali operates as a semi-presidential republic with a transitional government following various military coups. The governance structure includes a transitional president and a national council. The legal system is based on civil law influenced by customary law, and citizens are permitted dual citizenship. Elections have faced significant challenges, leading to extended military rule.

Transition President: Assimi GOITA (since June 2021)
19 regions plus the capital, Bamako
Suffrage at 18 years; universal
New constitution ratified in June 2023

Military and Security

The Malian Armed Forces consist of the Army, Air Force, and various security units tasked with maintaining internal security and combating terrorism. Military expenditure is significant, accounting for 4.3% of GDP in 2024. The country faces ongoing security challenges, including insurgent and terrorist groups operating within its borders.

Estimated 35-40,000 active military personnel (2025)
4% military expenditure as a percentage of GDP (2023)
Active combat against groups affiliated with al-Qaida and ISIS

Energy

Mali has low electricity access, with around 53% of the population having access to electricity as of 2022. The energy sector relies on a mix of fossil fuels, hydroelectricity, and solar power, but faces challenges in expanding infrastructure.

1.222 million kW of installed generating capacity (2023)
18.3% rural electrification rate
4.261 billion kWh electricity consumption (2023)

Transportation

Mali has a developing transportation sector, including a limited railway system and several airports. The country’s infrastructure is still being improved, which could enhance connectivity within the region.

30 airports (2025)
593 km of railways (narrow gauge)

Communications

Telecommunications in Mali are expanding, with a significant portion of the population having access to mobile cellular services and the internet. Fixed line subscriptions remain low, but mobile subscriptions are widespread.

25.9 million mobile subscriptions (2022)
35% internet penetration rate (2023 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	22,634,423 (2025 est.)
Area	1,240,192 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$71.253 billion (2024 est.)
GDP per capita	$2,900 (2024 est.)
Unemployment rate	3.1% (2024 est.)
Birth rate	39.44 births/1,000 (2025 est.)
Life expectancy at birth	63.2 years (2024 est.)
Education expenditure	4.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
Major urban areas population	2.929 million (Bamako, 2023)