April 11, 2026 l By William Emma
Mali has announced its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan over the disputed territory of Western Sahara, marking a significant shift in regional diplomacy and deepening divisions in North Africa over the long-running conflict.
Speaking at a joint press conference, Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, confirmed that Bamako now backs Morocco’s proposal to grant Western Sahara autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, describing it as the “only serious and credible basis” for resolving the decades-old dispute.
As part of the move, Mali has withdrawn its recognition of the self-declared Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, which was proclaimed by the Polisario Front in 1976. The Polisario Front continues to push for full independence and insists on a United Nations-backed referendum for self-determination.
Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, remains one of Africa’s most contested territories. While Morocco controls most of the region, the Polisario Front—supported by Algeria—claims it as an independent state for the Sahrawi people.
Morocco’s Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, welcomed Mali’s decision, calling it a “historic” development that reinforces Rabat’s position on the issue. The Moroccan government has long proposed autonomy as a compromise solution, maintaining sovereignty while offering limited self-governance to the region.
The announcement comes amid worsening relations between Mali and Algeria, a key supporter of the Polisario Front. Analysts say Mali’s alignment with Morocco could further strain diplomatic ties in the region and reshape alliances surrounding the Western Sahara question.
The dispute over Western Sahara has persisted for decades, with tensions rooted in colonial history and competing claims over territory rich in natural resources, including phosphates and fishing waters. Despite repeated international efforts, including calls from the United Nations for negotiations, a lasting political solution has remained elusive.
Mali’s endorsement of Morocco’s plan adds new momentum to Rabat’s diplomatic campaign, but it also highlights the deep divisions that continue to define one of Africa’s longest-running territorial conflicts.