The informal sector plays a crucial role in urban economies across Africa, including Mali’s growing cities where traditional formal structures often falter. A comprehensive analysis of scholarly articles, focusing on empirical studies and theoretical frameworks that have explored the economic activities, regulatory environments, and social impacts of the informal sector in Malian urban areas. The review identifies a significant proportion (30%) of urban employment within Mali's cities as being engaged in informal sectors, particularly in services and small-scale enterprises. This highlights the resilience and adaptability of these economic activities despite regulatory challenges. The reviewed literature underscores the need for inclusive policies that support rather than stigmatize informal sector actors, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of their contributions to urban economies. Policy recommendations include fostering entrepreneurship through targeted training programmes and improving access to finance and markets for informal sector entrepreneurs in Mali’s cities. Informal Sector, Urban Economy, Mali, Entrepreneurship, Policy Recommendations