Mali is located in Western Africa, and its capital is Bamako. It has a population of approximately 24,478,595 and covers an area of about 1,240,190 km². Its official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF).
What stands out
People & place
19.7 /km² across 1,240,190 km²
Mali has a recorded population of 24,478,595 and a reported surface area of 1,240,190 km².
Economic snapshot
$26.79 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $26.79 billion and GDP per capita at $1,095 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
West African CFA franc (XOF)
Mali uses West African CFA franc (XOF), calling code +223, internet domain .ml.
About Mali
Mali is a landlocked West African country known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and significant archaeological sites.
It covers an area of about 1.24 million square kilometers, featuring the Sahara Desert in the north, the Sahel in the central region, and the Niger River valley in the south. The country lies between Algeria to the north, Niger to the east, Burkina Faso to the south, Côte d'Ivoire to the southwest, Guinea to the west, and Senegal to the northwest.
Mali hosts a vibrant mix of ethnic groups, including the Bambara, Tuareg, Fulani, and Songhai. Traditional music, especially the kora harp, is integral to cultural expressions. Islam is the predominant religion, shaping social customs, festivals, and legal practices. Villages often practice communal living and craftsmanship in weaving and pottery.
Mali's history stretches back to powerful empires such as Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, famed for their wealth and scholarship. The Mali Empire reached its zenith under Mansa Musa in the 14th century. Modern Mali emerged as a French colony in the late 19th century, gaining independence in 1960. Since independence, Mali has experienced periods of democratic governance and military coups, with ongoing challenges linked to security and development.
Key facts
Mali is the 8th largest country in Africa, but it has the lowest population on the continent.
The official language is French, though numerous indigenous languages are widely spoken.
The historic city of Timbuktu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its medieval Islamic schools.
Mali's economy relies heavily on agriculture, livestock, and the mining of gold and other minerals.
The country is home to the ancient Djinguereber Mosque, one of the iconic Sahelian architectural masterpieces.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Western Africa