On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, the Anefif camp hosted the graduation ceremony for 37 ex-combatants who had completed the Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration, and Integration (DDR-I) process.
Primarily from the Kidal region, the new recruits took an oath before the command of the 7th Military Region (RM7), swearing to serve and defend the nation with loyalty, fidelity, and devotion, even unto death.
Led by the Ministry of Reconciliation, Peace, and National Cohesion, this initiative is part of the government's efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen social cohesion, and contribute to the defense of the national territory through the reintegration of former combatants into the Defense and Security Forces. For the Director of the Kidal Joint Training Center, Commander Aboubacar Maïga, the objective of this training was to allow recruits to learn and train together, develop camaraderie, and master the handling of weapons with professionalism.
"The objective has been achieved," he emphasized, praising the work accomplished by the trainees, their interest in the training, and the discipline they demonstrated throughout. For six months, the new recruits were trained in several areas, including tactics, the Internal Regulations of the Armed Forces, soldier training, and physical education, explained Sergeant Major Adama Drissa Dembele, an instructor at the Kidal Joint Training Center. According to him, this training enabled the new soldiers to acquire the fundamentals necessary for the profession of arms. Speaking on behalf of his comrades, Private First Class Mohamed AG ALASSANE reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to serving under the flag and defending the homeland with loyalty, discipline, and selflessness, even unto death.
Private First Class Sani AG ANTIHIDENE graduated at the top of his class with an average of 16.92.
With this graduation ceremony, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) welcomed new soldiers called upon to dedicate their skills and commitment to the defense of the homeland and the consolidation of national unity.
Sgt. Yacouba TRAORE
