Mali’s capital, Bamako, has been crippled by a severe fuel blockade imposed by the Al‑Qaeda affiliate JNIM, which has shut down schools, halted commerce and created long petrol queues. Amid this crisis, the city found a brief respite in the annual Rendez‑Vous Chez Nous festival, now in its ninth edition, where more than 200 giant, colorful marionettes danced through the streets. The vibrant spectacle offered residents a momentary escape from security worries and the fuel shortage.
The festival’s organizer, Yacouba Magassouba, director of the Nama company, stressed the importance of continuing artistic work despite the hardships. “We as artists don’t give up our work because of difficult times,” he said. “We continue to show the whole world that we exist.” Residents such as Yacouba Doumbia welcomed the event, saying it helped them forget their concerns.
Rendez‑Vous Chez Nous draws on Mali’s centuries‑old puppetry tradition, when ancestors used puppets to teach children and convey cultural values. Today, the puppets have evolved into “much more urban characters,” allowing children to dream while preserving cultural heritage in a modern context, according to theater director Adama Traoré.
Nevertheless, Mali’s cultural sector faces serious challenges. Since the 2020 military coup, international partners have withdrawn funding, making it difficult for artists to sustain their work. The festival’s determination to proceed despite these hurdles underscores the vital role of art in maintaining social cohesion and hope in a nation where cultural performances have become both more difficult and more necessary than ever.
Rendez‑Vous Chez Nous has become a beacon of resilience, demonstrating the power of art to unite people and provide relief in times of crisis. As Mali continues to navigate economic and security challenges, the festival’s success highlights the importance of supporting the country’s cultural sector, which is crucial for promoting social cohesion and national identity.
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