Bamako — Kadidia, a 19-year-old student in Bamako, once hesitated to discuss contraception. « I was ashamed to talk about it, » she admits. « In my community, it’s still a taboo subject. I feared judgment or gossip. » Her story reflects the challenges many young women in Mali face when accessing sexual and reproductive health services.
Despite progress, Mali continues to grapple with high maternal mortality rates. In 2024, the country recorded 583 maternal deaths, including 89 among adolescents aged 15 to 19. Early and unintended pregnancies remain significant risks, especially for young women in vulnerable communities. While access to modern contraceptive methods has improved—rising from 480,682 users in 2023 to 559,493 in 2024—the demand for tailored, stigma-free care persists.
Why reproductive health services matter for young women
Equitable access to sexual and reproductive health services is a cornerstone of public health. These services empower women to make informed decisions about their bodies, reduce unintended pregnancies, prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and promote overall well-being. Yet, cultural taboos, limited infrastructure, and systemic barriers often hinder progress. Addressing these challenges is not just a health priority—it’s a societal imperative.
The World Health Organization (WHO), alongside key partners, is working with the Malian government to dismantle these obstacles. Through a comprehensive initiative, the organization is strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing healthcare provider competencies, and expanding access to youth-friendly clinics. Data-driven policies are also being developed to guide public health strategies.
Strengthening expertise through targeted training
« This program aligns with our national strategy to safeguard reproductive health rights, particularly for adolescents, » says Dr. N’Tji Keita, Head of the Department of Maternal and Child Health at the National Office of Reproductive Health. Efforts include training magistrates on WHO guidelines, establishing a national health observatory, and improving maternal death surveillance systems.
The WHO’s role extends beyond technical support. As a catalyst for coordination, the organization has helped produce Mali’s first national bulletin on sexual and reproductive health indicators and the 2022 National Health Accounts. These tools provide critical insights for policymakers and health planners.
Bringing services closer to those in need
« We’ve launched integrated Mother-Child-Adolescent clinics, such as in Sikasso, which offer family planning and gender-based violence support, » explains Dr. Sylla Ousmane, WHO’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Program Manager in Mali. Mobile teams are also deployed to humanitarian zones like Macina, ensuring vulnerable populations receive essential care.
Midwives at the forefront of change
Midwives are the backbone of this transformation. Their continuous training has elevated the quality of care for young women. Aïssata, a midwife at the Kebila community health center, shares her experience: « I’ve undergone advanced training in prenatal care, family planning, and STI/HIV management. This has not only improved my skills but also allowed me to serve young women without judgment. »
Assetou, a mentor midwife in Yanfolila, 160 km south of Bamako, echoes this sentiment: « These trainings have revolutionized my approach. I now prioritize listening, availability, and consent. » Her center’s outreach has nearly doubled—from 2,330 to 5,121 adolescents served between 2019 and 2025.
Breaking taboos and building trust
Public awareness campaigns in schools, radio programs on sexuality, and provider training in empathetic communication have gradually shifted perceptions. Young women like Kadidia are now more confident seeking care: « The healthcare worker listened without judgment and provided clear advice. I encourage others not to fear these services—they’re there to help. »
With each trained midwife, each informed choice, and each life saved, Mali moves closer to a future where reproductive health rights are universally upheld.
