Bamako - Post Report Question and Answers
What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
It is a very hard place to live for two years, it really is shocking it isn't a one year post (for some diplomatic missions it is though). I have lived in West Africa so thought I knew what I was getting into, but honestly didn't. The economic disparity is very difficult, you can't help everyone and there is always something that happens or someone that needs some money. - Nov 2025
I've never lived in a high-threat place before, so that's been something to get used to. It can sometimes feel like a dark cloud hanging over things. Many restaurants have security barriers or double-entry gates and security at the entrance. You often get wanded and searched. There are security checkpoints in the evenings. Traffic can be pretty bad at times, and driving habits of locals are terrifying (especially motorbikes or "motos," of which there are many). I enjoy the challenge of driving more than expected, but many people really don't like it. Some people hire drivers. - Apr 2017
How much I was going to love it here. I was admittedly nervous before moving here (first time living in the developing world and Africa) but it has been a great experience. - Aug 2014
