The closure of the UN camp in Kidal: A necessary decision in the face of an increasingly unstable situation
The UN Mission in Mali (Minusma) plans to close its camp in Kidal early, due to the tense security situation in the region. Initially scheduled for mid-November, the closure could take place as early as next week.
According to our information, the evacuation of non-essential Minusma personnel is underway in Kidal. An official document consulted by RFI indicates that departure from the camp is set for October 30 or 31. A source within the UN representation in Kidal confirms: “From the end of October, we will in principle no longer be there. For us, the situation is becoming more and more untenable.”
This early closure decision is mainly motivated by the difficulties encountered by certain troop-contributing countries. Chadian peacekeepers, for example, face administrative obstacles in repatriating their troops, pushing them to accelerate their departure. Likewise, the Guinean contingent in Kidal reports logistical problems, with tankers blocked in Gao, endangering the camp’s fuel supply.
In addition to the evacuation of personnel, Minusma must also take measures concerning non-transportable equipment. Explosives and munitions will have to be destroyed, while office equipment could be offered to civilian populations. This process is reminiscent of that which was put in place during the closure of the Aguelok camp, another town in northeastern Mali.
In this situation, the question arises as to whether Minusma will formally hand over the camp to a civilian Malian authority before its departure. As was the case in Aguelok, staff security takes precedence, and it is possible that the local UN representation in Kidal leaves the camp without formalities. This situation reflects the climate of mistrust and insecurity that reigns in the region.
In conclusion, the early closure of the UN camp in Kidal highlights the challenges that Minusma faces in its peacekeeping mission in Mali. The increasingly precarious security situation and logistical obstacles complicate the action of the peacekeepers. It remains to be seen what will happen next and what solutions will be considered to ensure stability in the region.