It was a conscious decision made by my husband and I, and we are going in with eyes wide open and with optimism that it will be a fulfilling, wonderful post for us. So, for those who have been waiting for the news just like my husband and I, our next post is Bamako, Mali!!
So, why Mali? Well, to be honest it is one of my goals to live on as many continents as possible. So, we can mark Africa off our list!! Another goal is to be debt free by the end of our tour in Mali. There will be great opportunities for regional travel. The time zone is only 4 hours from the east coast, which makes communicating with family and friends a little easier. There are great EFM opportunities. Finally, it was highly recommended by one of my husband’s A100 classmates
Here’s some information about Mali:
-The population of Mali is 19.1 million
-67% of its population was estimated to be under the age of 25 in 2017.
-Mali’s climate is tropical, with March to May being the hot, dry season. June to October is rainy, humid and mild. November to February is the cool, dry season.
-The country’s economy centers on agriculture and mining.
-Cotton is the country’s largest crop export and is exported west throughout Senegal and Ivory Coast.
-Some of Mali’s prominent natural resources include gold, being the third largest producer of gold in the African continent,and salt
Trailing Spouse Tales 
Thanks for this blog. I’m going through the preemployment stage to join the foreign service – USAID and my spouse and enjoyed reading your journey. My wife will also be a trailing spouse and we are looking forward to some EFM jobs for her.
I look forward to your journey in Mali. That is one country I would like to serve in as an FSO. Did your husband have to take French classes at FSI for the Mali post?
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Hello! Mali has been great so far. The people (both Malians and Embassy community) are wonderful. My husband did not have to take French classes at FSI due to his position. Each agency and position have different language requirements. In any event, I would highly recommend learning a country’s language prior to arrival if possible, even if it is not required. It will make both of your lives so much easier!! I am so glad I took Russian lessons in Ukraine, and started learning French prior to arrival in Mali!!
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