Mali’s adoption of a new constitution in 2023 gave official status to 13 local languages, leaving French off the list. Yet the former colonial language still dominates classrooms.

To change that, the Education Ministry has turned to RobotsMali, an AI company producing more than a hundred illustrated stories in Bambara, the country’s most widely spoken tongue. Using tools like ChatGPT and Leonardo, the stories are written, translated, and illustrated to help students connect words with meaning.

Pupils say the initiative makes it easier to speak with friends while learning in their own language. The project also tackles the shortage of books in Malian languages, a problem that derailed earlier reforms. Against the backdrop of strained ties with France, the effort reflects Mali’s determination to reclaim cultural identity.

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