The current immunization results in Mali fall short of expectations. While the national authorities set an ambitious goal to vaccinate 70% of the population aged 12 and older, the actual coverage rate has stagnated at approximately 8%. In response to this gap, a United Nations delegation visited the country in early October to assist the government in aligning with the objectives of the National Deployment and Vaccination Plan (PNDV).
“A variety of campaigns are currently in progress. Our mission is to collaborate with the government and its partners to strengthen ongoing initiatives and ensure the population is protected against Covid-19,” stated Ted Chaiban, the UN’s lead coordinator for global vaccine readiness.
The challenge of public reluctance
During his visit to Bamako, the UN official acknowledged the significant efforts made by the Malian Red Cross. The organization has established a robust framework to combat the pandemic, bringing together various stakeholders to train volunteers and raise awareness among local communities. These efforts also include the distribution of protective gear, even as the intensity of the virus has decreased across the West Africa region recently.
Nevertheless, persuading citizens who remain skeptical of vaccines is proving to be a difficult task. This resistance is particularly strong now that Covid-19 cases are in sharp decline, making the perceived need for immunization less urgent for many Malians.
