The fourth edition of Mali's National Cybersecurity Days (JNC 2026) took place from October 26 to 30, 2026, at the Bamako International Conference Center (CICB), attracting over 2,000 participants. The event, organized by the Malian Authority for the Regulation of Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Communication (AMRTP), focused on the theme "Artificial Intelligence and Cyberspace: New Challenges for Cybersecurity." Discussions centered on major issues in digital transformation and increasing challenges related to information system security.
The closing ceremony was presided over by Minister of Communication, Digital Economy, and Modernization of Administration, Alhamdou Ag Ilyène. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening national capacities and regional cooperation to address new digital threats. The minister emphasized the importance of collective mobilization against digital risks, stating that cybersecurity is no longer just the concern of specialists but of everyone.
The event featured six panels and conferences, as well as training for 112 young people in cybersecurity. Key topics included protecting critical infrastructure, combating cybercrime, securing personal data, and digital sovereignty. The discussions aimed to deepen reflections on these critical issues and find practical solutions to enhance the country's cybersecurity posture.
One of the significant outcomes of JNC 2026 was the launch of the ML-CERT platform. This tool is designed to facilitate access to information, raise user awareness, and enable the reporting of cybersecurity incidents. The platform is part of Mali's efforts to strengthen its national mechanisms for preventing, detecting, and responding to cyberattacks.
The event also recognized young talents in cybersecurity through the "Capture the Flag" innovation and ethical hacking competition. The competition allowed participants to demonstrate their technical skills, creativity, and ability to contribute to protecting the national cyberspace. The winners received prizes, highlighting the importance of nurturing local talent in cybersecurity.
Minister Alhamdou Ag Ilyène stressed the need for consolidated cooperation among countries of the Sahel region, particularly within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). He noted that the transnational nature of cyber threats requires a concerted response based on shared experiences, competency reinforcement, and coordinated protection measures.
The JNC 2026 event underscored the strategic importance of cybersecurity in building a reliable and secure digital environment. For Mali, the goal is to develop the necessary competencies, infrastructure, and cooperation mechanisms to anticipate threats and master technological changes. The challenge now is to translate recommendations into concrete actions to build a digitally sovereign, resilient Mali capable of meeting future technological challenges.
Key points
- The Malian government has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing cybersecurity as a key component of its digital sovereignty strategy.
