Bamako, 12 November, 2025 / 6:31 pm (ACI Africa).
Catholic Bishops in Mali have announced the cancellation of the 54th National Pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Kita, initially scheduled for November 29-30, citing irregular fuel supply that is likely to affect transportation of pilgrims.
In a statement issued Tuesday, November 11, members of the Episcopal Conference of Mali (CEM) note that their decision was made “after careful reflection, prayer, and a sense of pastoral responsibility” to ensure the well-being of pilgrims.
“As every year, our Church was preparing with fervor to celebrate the National Pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Kita — a privileged moment of faith, fraternal communion, and offering for our country,” CEM members say in the statement shared with ACI Africa.
However, the Catholic Church leaders say, “in view of the current circumstances our nation is facing — particularly the difficulties related to the transportation of pilgrims due to irregular fuel supply — and after careful reflection, the Bishops of Mali have decided to cancel the 2025 National Pilgrimage to Kita.”
“This decision, born of prayer and a sense of responsibility, expresses the pastoral concern of the Bishops for the well-being of the entire People of God,” CEM members say.
