Since June 7, 2024, relations between Mali and Cameroon have taken a new turn. Indeed, Bamako has decided to strengthen border controls by imposing new entry requirements on Cameroonian nationals. This measure ends the free movement that had prevailed for more than half a century between the two countries.
After lifting the visa requirement in 1964, Malian authorities decided to reinstate this measure in 2015 in response to terrorist threats in the region. However, it took until 2024 for the visa-related formalities to be truly reinforced.
From now on, Cameroonians wishing to travel to Mali must provide a series of documents, including a valid passport, a recent ID photo, proof of accommodation, and a plane ticket. Visa fees have also been set. This new regulation applies to the vast majority of travelers, except for holders of diplomatic or service passports and certain professional categories.
While Malian authorities have not officially communicated the reasons for this tightening, it is likely that several factors are at play. In addition to the persistent terrorist threat, there is a desire to better control migration flows and protect the national labor market. It should be noted that with the rise to power of Colonel Assimi Goita following a coup in 2021, Mali has been engaged in a series of reforms to address long-standing security issues within its territory.
