With the inauguration of a democratically-elected leader, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, Mali may finally jetison the uncertainty and violence of the last 18 months.
Challenges Remain
Despite this positive move, Keita has a lot of work to do. Many Malians remain internally displaced, for the underlying Tuareg separatist movement is still kicking. In addition, corruption remains widespread. The risk of kleptocracy is real and dangerous to this fragile democracy.
Luckily, Keita isn’t going into the fight alone. Earlier this summer, the international community pledged over $4 billion in reconstruction aid.
So, what do you think lies ahead for this Western African country?