Stichting Mali Blues International

Mali Blues International - 

Stichting Mali Blues International was born from a deep belief that music can connect people, cultures, and communities across borders. Over many years, founder Henriëtte Kuypers Touré became closely involved in projects that brought Malian and European musicians together. Through her husband Ali Farka Touré, she witnessed the extraordinary power of music to create mutual understanding, friendship, and artistic growth.

Later on she met co-founder Renée Missel and together they became involved in the Music for Mali initiative in 2013. A benefit night was organised in Paradiso Amsterdam. Many instruments and other equipment was collected and sent to Mali to help Malian musicians who saw their instruments destroyed and livelyhood threatened by the jihadist invasion in their country.  

The following years they countered many practical obstacles that artists from Mali face when seeking international opportunities. Challenges related to visas, mobility, funding, professional representation, and access to international networks often make cultural exchange difficult, despite the enormous artistic talent that exists in Mali. These experiences highlighted the need for a dedicated organization that could provide structure, support, and long-term continuity.

Mali Blues International was therefore established in May 2026 to create a sustainable bridge between Mali and the Netherlands, and ultimately between Mali and the wider European cultural community. The foundation promotes cultural exchange, cooperation, and knowledge sharing between artists, while supporting their professional development and international mobility. Creating a transparent and sustainable framework for collaboration is one of its core objectives.

The foundation is inspired by Mali’s rich musical heritage, which has had a profound influence on music worldwide. Malian artists such as Ali Farka Touré helped reveal the deep connections between traditional Malian music and the roots of the blues, making Mali one of the most influential musical cultures in the world.

Beyond music, Mali Blues International believes that cultural exchange contributes to dialogue, peace, and mutual respect. By bringing together artists from different backgrounds, the foundation encourages people to discover shared values while celebrating cultural diversity. Concerts, residencies, educational activities, collaborations, and community projects all serve this larger purpose.

A special motivation behind the foundation is the desire to preserve, promote, and pass on Malian cultural heritage to future generations. At the same time, the organization seeks to create new opportunities for young artists and to strengthen cultural ties between Mali and Europe through fair, transparent, and respectful partnerships.

In essence, Mali Blues International was founded because its creators believe that culture is more than entertainment. It is a powerful tool for connection, learning, understanding, and hope. Through music, the foundation aims to build lasting cultural bridges between Mali and the world.