strengthening health systems in Mali through social protection
Malian authorities launch the first health month to enhance healthcare access and equity.
Healthcare access in Mali remains uneven, with vulnerable groups—including young children, pregnant women, and war casualties—facing significant barriers. The 2012 security crisis further strained an already fragile health system, exacerbating these challenges.
In response, Malian authorities are prioritizing health sector reforms despite ongoing security threats. To bridge gaps in healthcare access, they launched the first health month in november, integrating social protection measures to support at-risk populations.
“Improving public health is a government priority. I commend minister diéminatou sangaré for this initiative, which fosters dialogue with healthcare actors and beneficiaries to clarify their roles and responsibilities,” stated colonel abdoulaye maïga, interim prime minister of Mali, during the launch.
child health: a critical focus
Prime minister maïga emphasized the urgency of these efforts, noting that key health targets—such as reducing infant mortality—remain unmet. “infant mortality stands at 54 deaths per 1,000 live births, 33% of births occur outside health facilities, and only 45% of children aged 12–23 months receive all recommended vaccines,” he reported.
He added that “one in three children under five suffers from stunted growth, and just 40% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed.” Additionally, widespread unfamiliarity with health and social protection systems deepens disparities in care access.
