Independence Day of Mali — 22 September 🇲🇱
Today, Mali marks Independence Day, also known as Republic Day. On 22 September 1960, the Republic of Mali declared its independence from the Mali Federation.
WAELE AFRICA Foundation congratulates the people of Mali on this independence anniversary. We wish you continued peace, unity, and prosperity as you build the next chapter of your nation.
Mali is a landlocked country in West Africa with a rich and powerful history. From the 11th century, the great Malian Empire ruled the upper Niger basin all the way to the Atlantic coast. Its imperial influence declined in the 17th century as other powers rose in the region.
In the 19th century, during the Scramble for Africa, France conquered the territory in 1898, making it part of French Sudan. In April 1959, French Sudan merged with Senegal to form the Mali Federation, which gained independence from France on 20 June 1960. The Federation was short-lived and broke up on 20 August 1960 when Senegal proclaimed its independence. A month later, on 22 September 1960, French Sudan declared its independence as the Republic of Mali.
Did you know when the great Malian emperor Mansa Musa made his famous pilgrimage to Mecca in the 14th century, he traveled with over 70,000 people and up to 50 pounds of gold, building a mosque every Friday along his journey? He left so much gold behind that he caused inflation in the regions he passed. Mali is also home to the Great Mosque of Djenne, the largest mudbrick building in the world.
Today is a moment to honor Mali’s proud heritage, resilience, and hope for a peaceful and prosperous future.
#MaliIndependenceDay
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