Paper short abstract:

The Tuareg insurgencies in Northern Mali is often rationalized in terms of exclusion and marginalization. This study explores the role of Identity and Territorialization as alternative factors triggering and energizing the Tuareg rebellions in Mali and their implications for regional security.

Paper long abstract:

Armed rebellion occasioned by the activities of rebel groups pose a significant danger to human security and nation-building. Prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa and typical of this is the Tuareg rebellion in Mali. Existing studies have discussed the probable causes of the Tuareg rebellion from narrow standpoints. This justifies the need for broader engagement. Using secondary and primary sources, including interviews with key Tuareg leaders, government officials, the United Nations and African Union Missions, this study explores alternative factors that trigger and energize the Tuareg rebellions in Mali and their implications for regional security. This study argues that, given that the Tuareg are Berbers adhering mostly to a nomadic pastoralist lifestyle, the battle for their identity and campaign to geographically territorialize this identity in the State of Azawad in the face of opposition by the Malian state, is a plausible alternative explanation for their persistent and obstinate rebellion against the Malian government. Furthermore, the lack of understanding of these aspirations and continuous state-sponsored violence against the Tuaregs has resulted in many fleeing to neighbouring sub-Saharan countries with implications for security in the region. This has increased armed conflict and occupation of ungoverned spaces by criminal syndicates promoting transnational crime and worsening the already precarious state of human security, fueling insurgency and incidence of terrorism. This study concludes that there is compelling need for the Malian government to revisit several peace deals with the Tuareg and promote inclusive governance as a crucial step to de-escalating violence and breaking the cycle of insurgency.