Colonel-Major Karim Traoré, Commander of the Eastern Theater for Operation DOUGOUKOLOKO, paid an official visit to Sector 2 (Kidal) on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
The purpose of the visit was to assess the operational setup established to strengthen the presence of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) in Kidal and throughout the region.
This visit is part of the effort to consolidate State presence and marks a significant step toward the full restoration of the administration and State authority in the region.
During the visit, the Eastern Theater Commander commended all personnel deployed in the theater, paying special attention to the troops in Sector 2.
He extended his warm congratulations and encouragement to all units—led by Sector 2 Commander Colonel Attaher A. Maïga—for the work carried out with professionalism, commitment, and patriotism.
However, Colonel-Major Karim Traoré emphasized the need to maintain high levels of vigilance and professionalism following the results achieved. He urged the troops to demonstrate rigor, discipline, and cohesion, stressing that operational efforts are ongoing.
"The work has only just begun," he declared, reaffirming the FAMa's determination to continue their efforts to ensure lasting security in the region and enable the population to live in peace and safety.
For his part, Sector 2 Commander Colonel Attaher A. Maïga welcomed the visit by the Eastern Theater Commander, which followed recent operations conducted in the sector. He emphasized the importance of the chain of command being present among deployed units, particularly by offering encouragement and listening to the troops' concerns. In his view, this approach makes it possible to anticipate difficulties and provide appropriate responses promptly.
During the visit, Colonel-Major Karim Traoré met with the head of the Russian partners and the Sector 2 Commander. He also toured the camp facilities, gaining further insight into operational conditions and the deployed setup.
Staff Sergeant Yacouba Traore
