A displaced resident of Kouakourou shares their story: “When we arrived in Mopti, we were placed in a school. Many supplies were provided—rice, tea, sugar, oil, and powdered milk,…” The assistance came from an anonymous donor, with local authorities managing the distribution.

Living in a school building presents its own challenges, they explain. “Some sleep outside in the courtyard. During rain, we all crowd into classrooms. It’s unbearable.” Food is available, but survival conditions remain dire. Over 400 people now share the cramped space.

Kouakourou stands abandoned today. After receiving an ultimatum from jihadist groups, residents had no choice but to flee. One displaced person recounts: “Being forced to leave home, abandoning everything we owned—it’s heartbreaking. Our greatest wish is to return home.” Many left with only the clothes on their backs, as militants seized phones and other belongings. The tragedy struck just as farming preparations were underway, robbing families of an entire agricultural season.