On September 21, 2026, Mali's President of the Transition, General Assimi Goïta, inaugurated the Centre d'intelligence artificielle et de robotique du Mali (CIAR-Mali) in Kati Sirakoro Niaré. The event was attended by the Prime Minister, the President of the National Transition Council, and several other high-ranking officials. The center aims to provide training in artificial intelligence and robotics, with a focus on developing local expertise.
The CIAR-Mali center was built using the national budget and features state-of-the-art facilities, including administrative spaces, dormitories, a sports hall, a restaurant, and technical rooms. The center's director, Jacqueline Konaté Sogoba, highlighted that the project was initiated in 2023 and will offer rigorous and selective training to students. The center plans to tap into the expertise of Malians both within the country and in the diaspora.
The inauguration of the CIAR-Mali center is seen as a significant step towards achieving technological sovereignty in Mali. President Goïta emphasized that the country has the necessary human resources to compete internationally and that the center will help address local problems with local solutions. He also expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the project and encouraged the population to take care of the center.
The center's construction was carried out by Malian companies, which the President sees as a testament to the country's capabilities. He also thanked the Malian people for their resilience and support, which have made it possible to complete the project. The President outlined his expectations for the center, including providing Malian solutions to Malian problems, particularly in areas such as agriculture.
The event was attended by a large crowd from Kati, who welcomed the President and his delegation warmly. The Secretary General of the Kati municipality, Zanga Dao, praised the center as a new development pillar for the commune and the country. Architect Abdoulaye Arama presented the center's design and facilities, highlighting its potential as a hub for innovation and technological advancement.
Education Minister Bouréma Kansaye praised the project as a realization of President Goïta's vision and a demonstration of the government's commitment to investing in the country's future. The center is expected to play a key role in shaping Mali's technological landscape and promoting innovation. The President's visit to the center included a guided tour of the facilities.
In his address, President Goïta also took the opportunity to wish the Malian people a happy Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 22. He expressed his hopes for the country's continued progress and development, and reiterated his commitment to working towards a brighter future for all Malians. The inauguration of the CIAR-Mali center marks a significant milestone in Mali's journey towards technological advancement and self-reliance.
Key points
- The center aims to provide training in artificial intelligence and robotics, with a focus on developing local expertise.
- The center was built using the national budget and features state-of-the-art facilities.
- The President sees the center as a key step towards achieving technological sovereignty in Mali.
