UNICEF calls for the protection of children affected by violence in Mali 

Statement by UNICEF Regional Director a.i. for West and Central Africa, Félicité Tchibindat

11 September 2023

UNICEF is deeply concerned about the impact on children of increasing violence across Mali, highlighted by the recent attacks on a passenger boat near Timbuktu.

UNICEF expresses its condolences to the families of the victims, as well as its empathy to the injured and everyone impacted by this recent attack.  

There are confirmed reports that 24 children died in the boat attack, and 9 children are in hospital receiving treatment. 

All parties to the conflict must prevent and end grave violations against children, including the killing of children, as well as the recruitment or use of children, maiming, and rape or other sexual violence. Parties are encouraged to develop and implement action plans to end and prevent these violations from taking place. 

UNICEF is in Timbuktu working with the government, other United Nations agencies and partners to provide essential support to children and their families affected by the recent attacks, as well as the ongoing deteriorating humanitarian situation. 

Media contacts

John James
UNICEF West & Central Africa
Tel: +221 78 638 02 52

About UNICEF

UNICEF promotes the rights and well-being of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.

For more information about UNICEF and its work for children in West and Central Africa, visit https://www.unicef.org/wca.

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