But since 1992, when the country's first democratically-elected president took power, Mali has had a civilian government

OVERVIEW

The core of ancient empires going back to the fourth century, Mali was conquered by the French in the middle of the 19th century. In 1958 it was proclaimed the Sudanese Republic and the following year it became the Mali Federation, after uniting with Senegal. However, Senegal seceded and Mali became independent in 1960.

Although large swathes of Mali are barren, the country is self-sufficient in food thanks to the fertile Niger river basin in the south and east.

Mali is one of Africa's biggest producers of cotton, and has reserves of gold. However, economic development is substantially hampered by a chronic foreign trade deficit, making Mali heavily dependent on foreign aid and money sent home from emigrants working abroad.

In 1985 Mali fought a brief border war with Burkina Faso, and relations continue to be strained. In the early 1990s the army was sent to the north to quell a rebellion by Tuareg tribes over land, cultural and linguistic rights. However, Mali remains relatively peaceful.

FACTS

• Population: 13.8 million (UN, 2005)
• Capital: Bamako
• Area: 1.25 million sq km (482,077 sq miles)
• Major languages: French, Bambara, Berber, Arabic
• Major religions: Islam, indigenous beliefs
• Life expectancy: 47 years (men), 48 years (women) (UN)
• Monetary unit: 1 CFA (Communaute Financiere Africaine) franc = 100 centimes
• Main exports: Cotton, gold, livestock
• GNI per capita: US $290 (World Bank, 2005)
• Internet domain: .ml
• International dialling code: +223

LEADERS

President: Amadou Toumani Toure

Amadou Toumani Toure, the army general credited with rescuing Mali from military dictatorship and handing it back to its people, won presidential elections in May 2002.

Amadou Toumani Toure

Mr Toure first came to power in 1991, overthrowing military ruler Moussa Traore after his security forces killed over 100 pro-democracy demonstrators.

He gained widespread respect, and the nickname "soldier of democracy", for handing power to elected civilians the next year.

Mr Toure, also known popularly by his initials "ATT", has no official party but went into the first round of the elections with the backing of numerous support groups and 22 minor parties.

He has pledged to promote education and jobs for the young.