Biography
Biography pending.
Conference contributions 1
AI AND SOCIAL JUSTICE IN THE SAHEL:
A case study of Mali's youth and digital transformation
The Sahel, particularly Mali, has a paradox. Its youth population (over 65% under 25) is a demographic dividend but structural barriers like limited access to quality education, high unemployment and digital inequality stop them from participating in the digital economy. Artificial intelligence is increasingly being promoted as a development tool. Without ethical frameworks, AI risks exacerbating existing inequalities. How can AI be leveraged to promote social justice for Malian youth? This study asks. This research adopts a qualitative case study approach, utilizing analysis of existing digital infrastructure and AI policies in Mali, comparative review of AI initiatives in similar fragile contexts, and interviews with Malian students and young entrepreneurs. Initial results indicate that AI literacy among Malian youth is very low. Most of the AI applications are imported without being adapted to the local linguistic realities (French, Bambara, Arabic). Lack of electricity and internet penetration (33%) limits AI deployment. However, mobile phone penetration (over 85% in urban areas) opens a door for AI-powered mobile learning. A preliminary ethical framework is proposed in the paper based on four principles: accessibility, localization, participation and accountability. Without intentional social justice frameworks, AI-driven development in Mali risks leaving the majority of youth behind while creating a new digital elite. This research advocates for South-South cooperation, especially between Mali and China, to build inclusive and locally embedded AI capacity.