Bamako Secure Transportation Services

Secure Transportation and Close Protection services in Bamako

ETS Risk Management leverages extensive experience in secure transportation to provide tailored security solutions worldwide. With a deep understanding of regional threats, the team designs strategies that address specific security concerns, ensuring that each journey is as safe as possible. Whether navigating urban landscapes or remote areas, Our expertise in risk management sets the standard for secure travel.

ETS Risk Management are the trusted provider of Secure ground transport and close protection services to a range of organizations and VIP business travelers in Bamako and throughout Mali.  We offer industry leading solution to help our clients improve their travel risk management and reduce the risk of potential challenges in this region.

We have operated in the region for over 6 years and have a well-established local team of security drivers to accompany our extensive range of modern, high end non-armoured SUVs, and highly trained security officers.  All of our security team are qualified, highly trained, extensively vetted and have many years experience working within the security industry. All stem from either military or law enforcement backgrounds.

ETS Security Overview - Mali

Mali, located in West Africa, faces a highly complex and volatile security environment, characterized by terrorism, political instability, and an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Despite efforts from the international community, the government, and regional forces, the security situation in the country remains precarious, particularly in the northern and central regions. Visitors to Mali should be aware of the heightened risks and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Mali has faced severe political instability over the past decade, marked by multiple coups, the most recent being in 2021. The current transitional government has struggled to maintain control and governance in many parts of the country, particularly in the north and central regions, where extremist groups operate with relative freedom. Protests and civil unrest are common in the capital, Bamako, and across the country, often in response to political developments, economic hardship, or military action. Political instability and tensions between different ethnic groups exacerbate the fragility of the situation, and there is an elevated risk of violence or unrest during key political events or anniversaries.

Bamako, the capital of Mali, presents a unique set of security challenges for residents, visitors, and business operations.  The country has significant issues, primarily from terrorism, crime, civil unrest, and political instability. Travelers and businesses operating in Bamako should remain vigilant and adopt comprehensive risk mitigation strategies to ensure their safety.

Mali faces a significant threat from terrorist groups, particularly in the northern and central regions. Bamako has experienced several high-profile terrorist attacks over the past decade, demonstrating the continued presence of extremist elements even in the capital. While security has improved since the attacks on the Radisson Blu Hotel in 2015 and Campement Kangaba in 2017, the risk of further attacks remains. Terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and affiliated organizations have a history of targeting locations frequented by foreigners, including hotels, restaurants, and embassies.

Crime is a major concern in Bamako, with incidents ranging from petty theft to more serious violent crime. Knife crime, robberies at gunpoint and kidnappings are common. Carjackings and vehicle thefts are also a major concern, particularly in the outskirts of the city or in areas with limited security presence. Criminals often target vehicles that are perceived to carry wealthy individuals or foreigners. NGOs are commonly targeted for their vehicles which have also resulted in several NGOs being severely assaulted by criminal gangs.

Bamako, like much of Mali, faces public health challenges. The city has a high risk of diseases such as malaria, cholera, and tuberculosis. The healthcare system is under-resourced, and medical facilities may lack the equipment and expertise necessary for dealing with more serious medical conditions.  More serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to better-equipped facilities in Europe or North Africa. International organizations and embassies often recommend travelers have comprehensive medical evacuation insurance. 

Travel by road is very high risk.  Bamako’s infrastructure, particularly its road network, is underdeveloped. Poor road conditions, erratic driving, and frequent accidents pose risks to travelers. The situation is exacerbated by heavy traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours.The majority of drivers are uninsured, unqualified and generally show little regard for road traffic safety.  Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) are frequent and are a result of inadequate driver training, lack of road discipline and excessive speeding.  

Public transportation, including minibuses and shared taxis, is generally unsafe due to overcrowding, poor vehicle maintenance, and reckless driving. Private, pre-arranged transportation is recommended for all travel within the city.

ETS Secure Airport Transfers in Bamako

ETS can support all airport transfers in Bamako with local security drivers and armed executive protection teams. We facilitate security airport transfers for a range of clients and are preferred suppliers to a number of Non Government Organisations. Our security drivers and/or executive protection teams provide a low-profile meet and greet service and enable secure movement to/from airports and hotels.

 

As part of our service all clients have free access to our ExploreSecure® eLearning Travel Security Training pre-departure.