Moroccan international truckers traveling through Mali to reach West African markets are facing growing security risks, industry representatives said, amid instability in the Sahel region and increased attacks on commercial trucks.
Authorities in Mali recently closed the country’s land border with Mauritania, complicating transit for Moroccan trucks, while armed gangs have reportedly targeted vehicles along key transport routes.
“Moroccan drivers transporting goods deep into Africa face significant challenges crossing Mali, despite alternative informal routes,” said Mustapha Chaouen, head of the African Union of Multimodal Transport and Logistics Organizations to Hespress AR.
“The overall security situation in the Sahel negatively affects the flow of Moroccan goods to African markets.”
Industry leaders are optimistic about the near-term opening of a new road linking the Moroccan town of Smara to Mauritania, which they say will provide a safer and more cost-effective route for trucks.
Chaouen added that construction on the route has reached an advanced stage.
The new corridor is expected to reduce travel time and costs while limiting exposure to criminal and militant activity in Mali and neighboring countries, sources said.
Charki El Hashimi, secretary-general of Morocco’s General Union of National and International Transport Professionals, stressed that recent instability and increased armed activity along Malian roadways pose serious safety concerns for truckers.
The union has launched an awareness campaign urging drivers to avoid nighttime travel, particularly after 6 p.m., and to exercise caution on isolated or poorly secured routes.
Drivers are also advised to plan for fuel shortages in Mali, following attacks on fuel depots.
“Safety remains the top priority,” El Hashimi said. “Following these guidelines is essential to protect both drivers and cargo while maintaining vital trade links between Morocco and West Africa.”
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