The Tuareg “rebels” have once again signed a peace agreement with the Malian government in Bamako. I would be oversimplifying and an armchair quarterback if I pretended to be an expert on the “bad times” in Mali.

However, (you knew that was coming!) I am reminded of playing “Risk” and ganging up on the loser to shorten the game. I hope that with this agreement the good guys can gang up on the terrorists and rebuild the Mali that is famous for friendliness, tolerance and hospitality. Perhaps the establishment/government of Mali can send some resources north to help the northerners feel the attachment to the nation. Sometimes “golden handcuffs” can be helpful to unify the nation, instead of all the riches staying in the south.

Rebuilding the road to Timbuktu would be a great symbol of caring and concern now that “Team Mali” is forming up again. If the road and the airport were back in use by mere mortals, the next step? Restore the Festival in the Desert!! Please!