Africazine:
The recent inauguration of a digital interconnection between Mali and Senegal marks a significant advancement in regional digital integration.
Mali’s Société Malienne de Transmission et de Diffusion (SMTD-SA) and Senegal Numérique (SENUM-SA) launched their national digital backbones interconnection on October 5, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance network resilience, improve service continuity, and facilitate data exchanges between the two nations.
Mali and Senegal Launch Digital Backbone Interconnection
The inauguration event took place at the border between Mali and Senegal, showcasing the commitment of both countries to strengthen their digital infrastructure. Institutional representatives, local authorities, and technical teams gathered to celebrate this milestone in West African cooperation.
This interconnection is part of a larger effort to develop regional digital infrastructure, driven by the West African Backbones Network (ROA-BN). Dr. Cheick Oumar Traoré, the Director General of SMTD-SA, leads this initiative, which aims to foster a more integrated digital landscape across West Africa.
Mali: Key figures on digital interconnection
- October 5, 2026
Strengthening Regional Cooperation in Digital Infrastructure
The collaboration between Mali and Senegal reflects a strategic approach to enhancing digital connectivity in the region. By improving service continuity and resilience, both nations aim to create a more robust digital ecosystem that can support economic growth and development.
This project signals a commitment to regional integration, with the potential to serve as a model for other West African countries seeking to enhance their digital capabilities.
Next Steps for Digital Integration
- Continued development of regional digital infrastructure
- Further collaboration between Mali and Senegal
- Expansion of the West African Backbones Network initiatives
The interconnection between Mali and Senegal is a pivotal step towards a digitally integrated West Africa.
