The reoccurring incidence of armed conflicts has become hazardous and threatens the wellbeing and rights of children in Mali. This paper examined the effects of armed conflict on children in Mali. The paper adopted descriptive research design and extracted information from secondary source of data.

The paper analysed the Mali crisis through the lens of Failed State Theory, examining the role of weak governance, institutional weaknesses, and corruption in contributing to state failure and internal conflicts. Drawing on both the strengths and limitations of the theory, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the complex interplay of political, economic, and social factors in addressing Mali’s challenges.

It highlights the potential role of external intervention in fostering stability while acknowledging the need for more comprehensive strategies, including institutional reform, good governance, and inclusive peace building processes. By critically engaging with Failed State Theory and its application to the Mali context, this paper contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the crisis and offered valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to foster sustainable peace and stability in the region.

Though stakeholders have made some efforts to stem the tide of armed conflict in Mali, such efforts appeared to be inadequate. The paper thus recommended among others, that government should, in strengthening the implementation of peace agreement, there should be enhancement of security sector reform, issues of governance and corruption should be tackled critically, let there be enhanced access to basic services, promotion of economic development and livelihood is essential for reducing poverty and inequality.