The President of the Transition, Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, General Assimi Goïta, received the 82 Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) soldiers recently released in northern Mali at the Koulouba Palace on Monday, August 17, 2026.
This formal audience reflects the nation's gratitude to these valiant soldiers and marks an important step in their return and integration into the Malian armed forces in Bamako.
After undergoing the required medical examinations, the released soldiers were presented to the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. On this occasion, General Assimi Goïta offered them his encouragement and commended their courage and resilience in the face of the hardships they endured during their captivity. During this meeting, the Head of State offered these soldiers valuable advice, reminding them that military service involves risks and sacrifices inherent in the defense of the Nation. He also urged them to remain committed to the values of courage, discipline, loyalty, and dedication that underpin service to the homeland.
As a reminder, the 82 soldiers were released on Thursday, August 13, 2026, and welcomed upon their arrival in Bamako by the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Élisée Jean DAO, at the airport of Air Base 101 in Sénou.
The reception of these soldiers by the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces thus reflects the Nation's gratitude towards these valiant soldiers. It also reaffirms the authorities' determination to spare no effort in standing alongside those who defend, with commitment, courage, and patriotism, the integrity of the national territory at the risk of their lives.
ADT Kaly DIAKITE
