Artificial Intelligence law at Mali
As of May 2025, Mali does not have a comprehensive national law specifically regulating artificial intelligence (AI). However, the country is actively exploring AI applications, particularly in education and language preservation, and has established foundational data protection legislation.
🇲🇱 Current Legal and Policy Landscape
1. Data Protection Law (Law No. 2013-015)
Mali's primary legal framework for data protection is Law No. 2013-015, enacted on May 21, 2013. This law governs the collection, processing, and transfer of personal data within Mali and applies to both public and private entities. It mandates data controllers and processors to ensure the confidentiality and security of personal data, implement appropriate technical and organizational measures, and notify the Malian Data Protection Authority (APDP) of data processing activities. The law also grants individuals rights such as access, rectification, and deletion of their personal data. Violations can result in penalties, including fines and imprisonment. (DataGuidance, CaseGuard)
However, Law No. 2013-015 does not specifically address AI technologies or automated data processing, leaving a regulatory gap in the context of AI development and deployment.
2. Cybercrime Law (Law No. 2019-056)
Enacted on December 5, 2019, Law No. 2019-056 focuses on the repression of cybercrime, including offenses related to unauthorized access to computer systems, data breaches, and cyber fraud. While it provides a legal basis for addressing certain cyber-related offenses, it does not explicitly cover AI-specific issues such as algorithmic accountability, transparency, or bias. (CaseGuard)
🤖 AI Initiatives and Applications
Despite the absence of a formal AI law, Mali is leveraging AI technologies in various sectors:
Education: The government-backed initiative RobotsMali utilizes AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Translate to create educational materials in local languages, such as Bambara. This project aims to improve literacy and cultural relevance in education following the country's decision to elevate local languages over French. (Rest of World, The Washington Post)
Language Preservation: AI is being employed to generate children's books and teaching guides in Bambara, reflecting local culture and traditions. This effort addresses the scarcity of educational resources in native languages and supports the government's language policy shift. (The Washington Post, Rest of World)
RELATED Blog
0 comments