Map of Mali

The U.N. has been calling on ECOWAS to provide a more detailed plan for its proposed military action in northern Mali. Last week, the U.N. Security Council passed a resolution clearing the way for deployment of the ECOWAS force. It gave African leaders forty-five days to create a military intervention plan.

The newly appointed chairperson of the African Union Commission, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, said she would deal first with Mali after being sworn in. In Bamako, she said it was her first official trip as a messenger of solidarity from the African continent to the Malian people.

“I also want to highlight the AU's deep concern about the prevailing situation and the AU's determination to do everything in our power to help the people of Mali to find a speedy resolution of the overlapping crises in their country."

The U.N. Security Council will hold a second vote to approve or disapprove a military intervention plan once it is created. However, many people in Mali oppose foreign intervention.

Hundreds of Malians marched in Bamako this week to protest the idea of ECOWAS’ military deployment.

The protest was organized by supporters of former army members who ousted the government. Many Malians say they are concerned that the army is disorganized and poorly equipped to take back the north alone.

Last week, thousands of Malians marched in support of ECOWAS troops in Mali. A Malian living in the northern city of Gao says military intervention is necessary.