VOICED : Mali town counts dead

In central Mali, Islamist rebels seized control on January 10th, but were ousted by Malian and French forces a week later. The rebels retreated due to impending airstrikes, which helped halt the advance of al Qaeda-linked Islamists towards Bamako. However, the airstrikes resulted in casualties, including a French pilot, Malian troops, Islamist fighters, and civilians. Local resident Idrissa Maigre lost his family to the strikes. Despite the lack of official casualty numbers, local authorities reported four deaths. The deputy mayor highlighted the positive impact of the military's arrival, which restored safety and normalcy in Connor, though the memory of the conflict lingers.

What event marked the beginning of the conflict in central Mali?

• The bombing of Bamako

• The seizure by Islamist rebels

• The arrival of French forces

• The retreat of Islamist rebels

What was the primary reason for the rebels' retreat from central Mali?

• Lack of resources

• Anticipation of airstrikes

• Arrival of reinforcements

• Negotiations with the government

What was one of the consequences of the airstrikes in central Mali?

• The retreat of French forces

• The capture of Bamako

• The death of a French helicopter pilot

• The end of the conflict

How did the local authorities in Connor respond to the airstrikes?

• By evacuating the town

• By demanding an end to the conflict

• By focusing on the positive impact of military presence

• By reporting high civilian casualties

What change occurred in Connor after the military arrived?

• A rise in conflict

• A return to normalcy

• Increased fear among residents

• A decrease in military presence