However it allowed the Tuaregs to regain control of their traditional fiefdom.

There is also a decades-long separatist struggle in northern Mali by ethnic Tuaregs.

That this is the real motive with the Tuaregs we are positively informed.

The Tuaregs, making up about 10 per cent of Niger's population, wanted more autonomy.

However the Tuaregs ditch the pact a week later.

Tuaregs in neighbouring Mali have also been fighting their government over the last few years.

The Tuaregs and Bedouin Arabs are the best known.

Around three thousand non-paying Malians also turned up for the three-day event, including nomadic Tuaregs.

Tuaregs took with them their livestock and Bella workers.

The Tuaregs of the present day may be regarded as the best representatives of the Tamahus.

The Tuaregs ditch the pact a week later.

But criminal gangs and al-Qaida affiliates who poured in alongside them have since routed the Tuaregs.

Light-skinned Tuaregs have accused successive black African governments in the south of marginalising the underdeveloped region.

Light-skinned Tuaregs have accused successive black African governments in the south of marginalizing the underdeveloped region.

The group aimed to combat attacks, vehicle hijackings, and cattle-rustling blamed on Tuaregs, army officers have said.

As part of the deal, Bamako agreed to open talks over the Tuaregs demands for more autonomy.