Rebels in northern Mali seek independence

Arab fighters in northern Mali say they are willing to fight to the death for independence of the region, what they call Azawad.

Al Jazeera is the first international news organisation to visit them since French forces intervened earlier this year.

The Arab Movement of Azawad, one of the three groups that have been waging an armed rebellion against the central rule, poses a security challenge for the government in the capital, Bamako.

Mohamed Vall sends this exclusive report from northern Mali.