empowering midwives in Mali to transform women’s health outcomes

Bamako — Kadidia, a 19-year-old student in Bamako, once hesitated to discuss contraception. « I was ashamed to talk about it because it’s still a taboo subject in some communities here. I didn’t want to be judged or have people in the neighborhood talk about me, » she admits. Her experience reflects the challenges faced by countless young women in Mali, where social, cultural, and structural barriers limit access to sexual and reproductive health services.

the stark reality of maternal and reproductive health in Mali

In 2024, Mali recorded 583 maternal deaths, including 89 among adolescents aged 15 to 19. While these figures show gradual improvement, they also highlight the urgent need for continued progress. The country has nearly 4.8 million women of reproductive age, and while 559,493 young women and adolescents accessed modern contraceptive methods in 2024—up from 480,682 in 2023—gaps remain in coverage and accessibility. Early and unintended pregnancies pose significant risks, underscoring the critical role of reproductive health services in safeguarding women’s futures.

Access to tailored reproductive health services empowers women to make informed decisions about their bodies and well-being. These services reduce unintended pregnancies through contraception, prevent sexually transmitted infections, and promote physical and mental health. In a society where stigma persists and risks are high, ensuring these rights is a public health priority.

how the WHO and Mali are driving change

The World Health Organization (WHO), with support from a major donor, is collaborating with the Malian government to implement a comprehensive program aimed at advancing sexual and reproductive health rights and access. This initiative includes strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing healthcare provider skills, providing medical equipment, and establishing youth-friendly clinics. Additionally, it focuses on generating reliable data to inform public policies and improve health outcomes.

The program is fully integrated into Mali’s strategic health plan, with a strong emphasis on protecting the rights of young people and adolescents. « We’ve trained magistrates on WHO’s latest guidelines, launched a national health observatory, and strengthened the maternal death surveillance system, » explains Dr. N’Tji Keita, Head of the Maternal and Child Health Department at Mali’s National Office of Reproductive Health.

The WHO’s role extends beyond technical support. It acts as a catalyst for coordination and supervision, enabling Mali to publish its first national bulletin on sexual and reproductive health indicators and the 2022 National Health Accounts. These tools provide deeper insights into performance and guide strategic decision-making.

innovative initiatives bringing care closer to communities

Key projects include the establishment of a Mother-Child-Adolescent clinic in Sikasso, offering integrated family planning and gender-based violence support services. A mobile health team is also ready to serve vulnerable populations in Macina’s humanitarian zone. « These initiatives aim to bring essential services directly to those who need them most, » says Dr. Sylla Ousmane, WHO’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Program Manager in Mali.

the transformative impact of trained midwives

Midwives are at the heart of this health transformation. Their continuous training has significantly improved the quality of care for young women. Aïssata, a midwife at the Kebila community health center, shares her experience: « I’ve received advanced training in prenatal care, family planning, STI/HIV/AIDS management, and medical prescriptions. This has enhanced my ability to serve young women without judgment, » she says proudly.

Assetou, a midwife mentor in Yanfolila—160 kilometers south of Bamako—echoes this sentiment: « The training has revolutionized my approach, especially in listening, availability, and respecting consent. » Between 2019 and 2025, the number of adolescents accessing sexual and reproductive health services in her center more than doubled, from 2,330 to 5,121.

These improvements extend beyond statistics. Through school awareness campaigns, radio programs on sexuality, and training providers in active listening and consent, young girls are increasingly seeking care. Stigma is declining, dialogue is opening, and trust is growing.

Kadidia’s story reflects this change. « The nurse who attended to me made me feel at ease—she listened without judgment and gave me excellent advice. I can say this service contributes to our well-being. To young girls, I’d say: don’t be afraid. Seek advice; these services are here to help you, » she shares with newfound confidence.