Bamako, 31 july 2026 — Digital innovation is reshaping regional cooperation across the Sahel. The fourth edition of Mali’s Digital Week (SENUMA), launched on 28 july and running until 1 august 2026 in Bamako, has drawn strong participation from Niger as part of the growing partnership within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The event, themed « The digital ecosystem in Mali: current state, challenges and prospects for successful digital transformation », brings together policymakers, business leaders and civil society to explore how technology is transforming public administration, private enterprise and access to essential services.
Niger steps forward as a key partner
Niger’s involvement is more than ceremonial. As a core member of the AES, Niger is leveraging this platform to deepen collaboration with Mali on digital strategies that underpin state sovereignty and sustainable development.
A multi-sector delegation from Niger
Niger joins Burkina Faso as a guest of honour at SENUMA 2026. The delegation includes key institutions driving the country’s digital agenda: the Ministry of Communication and Digital Technologies, the National Agency for the Information Society (ANSI), the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Posts (ARCEP), Niger Post and the Higher School of Electronic Communications and Posts (ESCEP-Niger).
This broad representation underscores a holistic approach, uniting regulation, education, infrastructure and service delivery under a shared vision of digital progress.
Sharing saharan digital experiences
Throughout the week, Niger’s delegation is not only observing but actively exchanging best practices with counterparts from Mali and other AES members. In a region facing economic, administrative and security constraints, digital tools have emerged as powerful enablers of resilience and efficiency in governance.
The exchanges in Bamako are taking on a distinctly regional dimension. Participants are focusing on aligning digital policies, consolidating technical expertise and developing solutions that reflect the realities of Sahelian states.
For Niger, the forum also provides a chance to showcase its own digital achievements and learn from initiatives underway in Mali and other participating countries.
Building stronger digital cooperation across the Sahel
SENUMA 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment, as Sahelian states accelerate efforts to enhance their digital capabilities. Beyond high-level dialogue, the real challenge lies in translating policy into tangible progress that benefits public institutions, businesses and, most importantly, citizens.
Niger’s active participation in Bamako reflects a commitment to deepening regional collaboration and advancing a digital transformation that is both inclusive and responsive to local needs. The four-day forum concludes on 1 august, but its impact is set to resonate well beyond the closing session.
