. "The recent attacks in Bamako, Mopti, Gao, Kati and Kidal that started on 25 April 2026 have shown, yet again, that it is children who are paying the highest price of ongoing violence in Mali.
"Initial reports indicate that civilians, including children, were killed and injured during the attacks. The injured children are being treated in local health facilities.
"UNICEF is concerned by reports that a school in the Mopti region has been affected, including through occupation by weapon bearers and the presence of an explosive device nearby, disrupting the right to education for at least 300 children. In addition, a community health centre in Gao was reportedly attacked, undermining access to basic health services for nearly 2700 children. Schools and health facilities should be safe havens and must never be targets.
"UNICEF calls for the urgent protection of civilian infrastructure and for the upholding of obligations under international humanitarian law. UNICEF further calls for an end to, and the prevention of, grave violations against children, including killing and maiming, attacks on schools and health centers, and the denial of humanitarian access. Humanitarian actors must be able to reach children and families safely and without obstruction.
"In response to the recent security incidents, UNICEF continues to support affected populations through targeted child protection, health, nutrition, wash and education interventions, in close coordination with relevant authorities and partners. UNICEF has maintained the provision of critical child protection services in Kidal, where 60 unaccompanied children are currently receiving care through foster families, with an additional three separated boys identified following the recent attacks. In parallel, three mobile health clinics are operational to facilitate access to essential health services, including nutrition screening, while efforts are underway to support learning for children affected by the violence in the Gao region. WASH kits and education materials have been prepositioned and are ready for distribution in Gao, Ménaka and Mopti.
"UNICEF remains committed to supporting children and families affected by these attacks, and to support services to respond to the rapidly evolving humanitarian situation. Every child in Mali must be protected from all forms of violence."
