Paul Chandler is a journalist based in Bamako, Mali.
Tamasheq cultural group Ekanzam are from Menaka, Mali, in the region of Gao, and the cultural zone of Azawak. This area has been at the center of conflict in Mali. Affected by clashes between the Malian army and separatist rebels, and the recent occupation of jihadists and crime cartels, the Noir Kel Tamasheq make up a significant percentage of Northern Mali's population, and are struggling to make their voices heard for a peaceful, just and unified country.