Mali Statistics

Geography-Population

Capital:  Bamako

Area:  1,240,192 sq km

Climate:  subtropical to arid; hot and dry (February to June); rainy, humid, and mild (June to November); cool and dry (November to February)

Population:  14,159,904 (July 2011 est.)

Languages:  French (official), Bambara 80%, Fulani, Soninké, Senufo, Sonrhaï, Tamasheq, Dogon, Bobo

Government-Economy

Government type: republic

Independence Day: 22 September 1960 (from France)

Currency: CFA francs (XOF)

GDP: $16.74 billion (2010 est.)

GDP – per capita (PPP): $1,200 (2010 est.)

Information for Foreign Students in Mali

Obtaining a Visa

All foreigners need a visa to enter the country; so you are invited to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.

Here are the types and costs: Tourist, Business and Transit: single entry: US$80 (three months); multiple entry: US$110 (three months); US$200 (six months); US$370 (one year). The fee for nationals of the USA is US$131, regardless of the length of stay.

Here is a listing of Mali Embassies and/or Consulates located around the world:

http://www.africaguide.com/country/mali/offices.htm

Housing

Several landlords rent up a room in their house or a flat in town. You can find an accommodation by the word of mouth.

Health

If you need medical care whilst in Mali, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

Money

Credit cards are very little used in Mali's cash economy - and are only accepted at major banks, airports, hotels and restaurants. Visa is the main card accepted; MasterCard and American Express can sometimes be used.

Travelers' cheques can be exchanged in Bamako. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's cheques in US Dollars or Euros.

Transportation

There are several lines of buses and a network of taxi.

Phoning

There is an Internet cafe in Bamako. Some hotels offer access. Mali's broadcast and print media are among the most free in Africa. Roaming agreements exist with several international mobile phone companies. Coverage is limited to main towns. Outgoing international calls must be made via the international operator. These are expensive and collect calls cannot be made from Mali.