Cardinal Jean Zerbo, Metropolitan Archbishop emeritus of Bamako (Mali) was born in Segou on 27 December 1943. His priestly ordination took place on 10 July 1971, in Segou.

Part of his higher formation was carried out in Lyon. He graduated from the Biblical Institute in Rome, where he obtained a licentiate in sacred scripture (1977-1981).

From 1982, for several years, he worked as a parish priest in Markala and as a lecturer at the major seminary of Bamako. He was appointed as auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese of Bamako on 21 June 1988.

On 19 December 1994 he was transferred, as titular bishop, to the diocese of Mopti. On 27 June 1998 he was appointed archbishop of Bamako.

He has played an active role in the peace negotiations in Mali. He has been involved in the fight against exclusion and, above all, has promoted reconciliation and solidarity among Malians.

On 25 July 2024 the Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Bamako presented by Card. Zerbo.

Created and proclaimed Cardinal by Pope Francis in the consistory of 28 June 2017, of the Title of St. Anthony of Padua on Via Tuscolana.