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ConflictsMali

The hidden trauma of Malian refugee women and girls

December 18, 2025

As thousands of Malians are fleeing terror and fighting in their home country, women and girls often have to deal with the added trauma of sexual violence.

https://p.dw.com/p/55ewL

In Mauritania's desert camps, refugees who have fled brutal infighting in Mali bring with them many traumatic memories.

A 14-year-old girl is in critical condition after what her family says was a brutal assault carried out by members of the Africa Corps. The Russian unit has replaced the Wagner Group and now supports Mali's military against jihadist insurgents.

Doctors Without Borders suspects that there are more victims of sexual violence who remain silent.

DW News Africa presenter Tomi Oladipo
Tomi Oladipo Tomi Oladipo is a British-born Nigerian journalist based in Berlin.