Once considered a beacon of democracy and stability in Africa, Mali in recent years has been dogged by a coup, civil war and Islamist terrorism

With authorities failing to stand up to the aggression of invading extremist groups, Malians are forming rag-tag militias to defend their homes.

As an Islamic state called Azawad took root in the north of Mali, the interim president tasked with restoring unity was in a Paris hotel.

Former Nasa scientist Cheick Modibo Diarra has been named Mali’s new premier, even as its junta rounded up some of the nations top officials.

Ali Ag Rhissa, a young Touareg nomad, sits in his tent, his gun ready, on the frontline of one of Mali’s battles — protecting its desert elephants.