Plans for a large presence of ECOWAS troops has been fueling political tensions in Bamako for weeks . After a military coup in March , Islamists seized two - thirds of Mali . The West African regional block has put its regional troops on standby . Mali and the West African group have reached an agreement . Troops will be based in the capital of Bamako , as a step toward ending violence .
After a military coup in March , Islamists seized two - thirds of Mali . The West African regional block has put its regional troops on standby . Mali and the West African group have reached an agreement . Troops will be based in the capital of Bamako , as a step toward ending violence .