Legal Framework for Minimum Working Age in Mali
Legal Minimum Age
In Mali, the minimum employment age is set at 15 years according to the Malian Labor Code (Law No. 92-020 of September 23, 1992). This provision complies with international conventions ratified by Mali, including:
- ILO Convention No. 138 on Minimum Age for Admission to Employment
- ILO Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour
- African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child
Exceptions and Derogations
The Malian Labor Code provides for certain regulated exceptions:
- Light work: Possible employment from age 13 for light work not affecting schooling
- Traditional apprenticeship: Artisanal training possible from age 14 under specific conditions
- Family businesses: Participation in agricultural or artisanal family activities with restrictions
Protection of Minors at Work
Work Prohibited for Minors
Malian legislation formally prohibits minors under 18 from:
- Underground work in mines
- Work exposing to toxic substances
- Carrying loads exceeding their strength
- Night work (between 8 PM and 6 AM)
- Activities in drinking establishments
- Dangerous industrial work
Specific Working Conditions
For young workers aged 15 to 18, particular conditions apply:
- Maximum duration: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week
- Mandatory rest: Minimum 12 consecutive hours
- Leave: Minimum 30 working days per year
- Medical examination: Mandatory before hiring and annually
Youth Professional Integration Programs
National Employment Agency (ANPE)
ANPE Mali coordinates several integration programs:
- Professional Integration Support Program (PAIP): Training and support for young graduates
- Qualification internships: Short training programs in various sectors
- Apprenticeship grants: Funding for qualifying training
Support Fund for Professional Training and Apprenticeship (FAFPA)
Created in 2008, FAFPA finances:
- Continuing professional training
- Traditional and modern apprenticeship
- Professional retraining for youth
- Equipment for training centers
National Program for Youth Employment Promotion (PNPEJ)
Launched in 2019, this program aims to create 500,000 jobs for youth by 2023 through:
- Entrepreneurship and self-employment
- Salaried jobs in the private sector
- Labor-intensive public works (THIMO)
- Public administration employment
Key Sectors for Youth Employment
Agriculture and Agro-industry
Sector employing more than 70% of the Malian active population:
- Subsistence and commercial agriculture
- Livestock and fishing
- Agro-food processing
- Agricultural product trade
Mining and Extractive Industry
Mali, Africa's 3rd largest gold producer, offers opportunities in:
- Gold mining operations
- Services to mining companies
- Mining transport and logistics
- Environmental and site restoration
Services and Digital
Developing sector with:
- Information technology
- Commerce and distribution
- Transport and telecommunications
- Financial services (mobile banking)
Challenges and Issues in Youth Employment
Statistical Data
According to the National Institute of Statistics (INSTAT):
- Young population: 67% of population under 25
- Youth unemployment rate: Approximately 25% (to be verified - recent data)
- Underemployment: More than 40% of young workers
- Informal sector: 90% of total employment
Integration Obstacles
Main difficulties encountered include:
- Skills-job mismatch: Gap between acquired skills and market needs
- Access to financing: Difficulties accessing credit for entrepreneurship
- Infrastructure: Lack of equipment in training centers
- Narrow job market: Few formal jobs created annually
Support and Assistance Measures
Youth Project Financing
Several financing mechanisms exist:
- National Youth Employment Support Fund: Preferential rate loans
- Microfinance program: Credits for micro-enterprises
- Partnership with MFIs: Specialized microfinance institutions
Tax Incentives
The Malian government provides:
- Tax exemption for new businesses (first 2 years)
- Reduced social charges for youth employers
- Customs facilities for production equipment
Evolution Prospects
Ongoing Reforms
Mali is working on:
- Labor Code modernization: Adaptation to current economic realities
- Strengthening labor inspection: Better protection for young workers
- Service digitalization: National online employment platform
ECOWAS Regional Cooperation
Within the West African integration framework:
- Harmonization of employment policies
- Mobility of young workers in the region
- Cross-border training programs
- Mutual recognition of qualifications
Note: Some recent statistical data require verification from official Malian sources (INSTAT, Ministry of Employment).