Why Malian singer, Rokia Traore, is to be extradited from Italy

Rokia Traore, a renowned Malian singer and guitarist, is set to be extradited from Italy, following a long-standing custody dispute.

Traore, who was sentenced to a two-year prison term in absentia by a Brussels court last year on charges of parental abduction, is to be deported to Belgium.

Arrested in Italy this June, Traore challenged the extradition order.

However, her lawyer, Maddalena Claudia Del Re, confirmed on Thursday that “Rokia will have to be transferred to Belgium within 10 days from today.”

Traore’s legal troubles began in March 2020 when she was arrested in Paris on a European arrest warrant. The arrest was linked to a Belgian court ruling ordering her to return her daughter, now nine, to the child’s Belgian father.

Despite a ban on leaving France, Traore flew home to Mali a few months later, defying the order before any extradition could take place.

Diaspora Digital Media also gathered that the father’s lawyer revealed that he had not had any contact with his daughter, who currently resides in Mali, since she was four years old.

He also mentioned that the father had proposed a new custody agreement, validated by both Malian and Belgian courts, to resolve the conflict and ensure their child has a future with both parents.

About Traore

Rokia Traore is a Malian-born singer, songwriter, and guitarist who has made a name for herself in the world music scene.

Born on January 24, 1974, in Kolokani, Mali, Traore’s exposure to various cultures, thanks to her diplomat father, has greatly influenced her music.

Her unique blend of traditional Malian music with Western styles has earned her numerous awards, including the BBC Radio 3 Awards for World Music and the Victoires de la Musique World Music Album of the Year.

However, Traore has been embroiled in controversy surrounding a custody battle with her ex-partner, Jan Goossens, over their daughter.

A Malian court granted Traore full custody, while Belgian authorities have challenged this decision.

This led to her arrest in March 2020, sparking widespread support from fellow musicians, including Angélique Kidjo and Damon Albarn.

More recently, in June 2024, Traoré was arrested again following a European arrest warrant issued by Belgian authorities.

Despite these challenges, Traoré remains a respected figure in the music industry, known for her commitment to promoting African culture and supporting refugees.

She was appointed as a UNHCR Regional Goodwill Ambassador for West and Central Africa in 2016.

Her music continues to inspire fans worldwide, with albums like “Mouneïssa,” “Wanita,” and “Beautiful Africa” showcasing her unique talent.

Through her foundation, Pasarelle, Traoré also provides training and opportunities for young performance artists in Mali.

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