Mali is launching a national digital platform to enable the diaspora to access key documents through diplomatic missions worldwide. This platform, developed by Malian experts, aims to streamline services and support visa applications for foreigners. It is part of Mali’s digital transformation efforts, backed by Huawei, and aligns with the recent introduction of a common biometric passport among Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Mali is set to launch a national digital platform aimed at improving access to vital documents for its diaspora. This platform will operate through Mali’s diplomatic and consular missions worldwide, allowing citizens abroad to retrieve administrative, identity, and travel documents, as reported by Wearetech.africa.
Abdoulaye Diop, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, stated that this initiative marks a significant advancement in modernizing administrative processes and enhancing document accessibility for Malians living overseas.
Designed by Malian experts, the platform not only benefits Malian nationals but also simplifies visa applications for foreigners. The initiative is part of a broader governmental effort to digitize all public services, supported by Huawei’s installation of fiber optic cables and construction of a data center.
Diop emphasized the platform’s role in promoting a “more efficient and responsive administration.” Additionally, it is compatible with Liptako Visa, a regional mobility initiative from the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Recently, Mali, alongside Burkina Faso and Niger, introduced a common biometric passport, marking a shift away from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) passports. Lt Gen Assimi Goita, transitional leader of Mali and Chairman of AES, assured that the old passports would remain valid until their expiration.
While Emptech, a Chinese identity solutions provider, has shown interest in the production of government-issued documents, sources indicate they were not involved in the new passport development for the three Sahel governments.
Escaping from ECOWAS has broader implications, affecting the World Bank-supported West Africa Unique Identification for Regional Integration and Inclusion (WURI) project designed to enhance socio-economic integration across West Africa, which previously included Burkina Faso and Niger.
Mali’s new digital platform signifies a major step in enhancing access to essential documents for its diaspora while contributing to the country’s digital transformation. The collaboration with Huawei to improve digital infrastructure supports this initiative. Additionally, the introduction of a biometric passport reflects broader regional cooperation despite the withdrawal from ECOWAS, presenting both challenges and opportunities for identity management projects in West Africa.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
