Malian media figure Abdoulaye Benson Diakité dies
The former RFI journalist and institutional communication advisor passed away on October 23, 2026, in Bamako.
Abdoulaye Benson Diakité, a prominent Malian journalist and communicator, died on Friday, October 23, 2026, in Bamako. Diakité, a former presenter for Radio France Internationale (RFI), had a career spanning decades in media, institutional communication, and culture. His funeral was scheduled for Friday after prayers in Missabougou.
Born in Bancoumana, Diakité began his career in teaching before moving into media, working at Africa N°1 and Radio Télévision Gabonaise in Gabon. He later joined RFI in France from 1994 to 2009, co-hosting programs like "Plein Sud" and focusing on African societies, culture, and diasporas. After returning to Mali, he served as a technical advisor in the General Secretariat of the Presidency in January 2010 and later as a special advisor to President Amadou Toumani Touré in August 2011.
Diakité also contributed to Malian media, sharing his insights on TM1 in recent years. He remained active in cultural initiatives, notably spearheading the Festi’Bazin in 2014 to promote Malian bazin fabric and its artisans. His career bridged international newsrooms and Malian realities, emphasizing knowledge transmission and giving voice to others.
Why it mattersMalian media professionals and cultural figures are affected by the death of Abdoulaye Benson Diakité.