In Korofina, Bamako, a Thursday afternoon in late October brought together women and young girls at the local civil registry office. Amin Dem, a midwife, opened the discussion with reassurance: “At first, there was a lot of hesitation. Girls were afraid, and so were parents. But through awareness campaigns, attitudes have shifted.”

The primary concern, she explained, revolved around a dangerous myth: that the vaccine could cause infertility. “When we take the time to explain—especially in local languages—people understand.”

Vaccination against HPV: a breakthrough for Mali’s health system

The HPV vaccine was introduced in November 2024, marking a turning point for public health in Mali. Using a single-dose regimen that provides full protection, over 145,000 girls aged 10 were vaccinated between January and September 2025. More than 113,000 of these girls were in school, while about 32,400 out-of-school girls were also reached. Authorities acknowledge the need to intensify efforts to include more marginalized girls, who may face higher risks of missing out on vaccination.

Dr. Ibrahima Téguété, a gynecologist-obstetrician at CHU du Point G, sees this progress aligning with the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 targets: vaccinating 90% of girls against HPV, screening 70% of women at key ages, and ensuring 90% of those with lesions receive treatment. “The introduction of the HPV vaccine is a huge achievement,” he says. “It finally allows us to act at the primary prevention level.” However, he notes the system’s limitations: “We have only one radiotherapy unit. Achieving the final ‘90’ will be a real challenge.”

Community mobilization: the driving force behind vaccination success

While public health structures form the backbone of the campaign, civil society has played a pivotal role. In Bamako, the NGO Solidaris223 has conducted numerous awareness sessions since the rollout. “We’ve reached every district. Mothers came to ask where they could get their daughters vaccinated,” says Amina Dicko, the NGO’s president.

At the Centre Djiguiya in Bamako, an entire day was dedicated to vaccination. “Seventy boarding school girls received their dose, and none experienced side effects,” confirms the center’s director, Mrs. Togo Mariam Sidibé.

Young girls like Awa, 10, share their experiences: “I was scared of the needle, but it was over quickly. I’m happy because this protects us for the future.” Haby, vaccinated at school, adds: “Our teacher explained why it was important. I asked my mom, and she reassured me. I’m proud to be vaccinated.” Dr. Téguété emphasizes the collective will behind these efforts: “The first vaccine batches were used up very quickly. This shows real commitment from all actors.”

Reducing resistance, but challenges remain

Misinformation about fertility continues to fuel some resistance. Dr. Téguété is firm: “Some claim the vaccine is harmful. That’s completely false.” Amin Dem witnesses this change daily: “Now, some mothers come on their own to ask for the vaccine. Taking the time to explain makes all the difference.”

Fannata Dicko’s story illustrates this shift. “I vaccinated my daughter because cervical cancer is deadly. My mother-in-law passed away from it this year. I’ve seen the suffering firsthand. Prevention is the only way to ensure my daughter never has to face this.”

Despite progress, challenges persist. Dr. Téguété admits: “Between Mopti and Gao, road travel can be impossible at times.” To overcome these obstacles, some vaccine shipments are airlifted to regional capitals.

The HPV vaccine is entirely free for all 10-year-old girls, thanks to the combined efforts of the Malian government and its technical and financial partners, including Gavi. This ensures equitable access even in remote areas. “If we maintain this effort for a few more years, we’ll have vaccinated all girls aged 9 to 14,” the specialist predicts.

A hopeful future amid ongoing challenges

Prevention efforts aren’t new. Between 2016 and 2022, the Weekend 70 program increased cervical cancer screening rates in Bamako from 15% to over 70%. Yet misinformation remains a major obstacle. Dr. Téguété stresses: “What people don’t know, they fear. We must keep explaining, informing, and talking.” He also praises the involvement of religious leaders: “Their support has been invaluable in reassuring families.” In Bamako, results are visible: parents are more confident, and more girls are receiving the vaccine. “Bamako isn’t all of Mali, but it’s a good indicator of what we can achieve together.”

Amin Dem shares this optimism: “Before, people asked why we were talking about cancer here. Now, they come seeking answers.”

For professionals and associations alike, the HPV vaccine represents the start of a profound transformation in women’s health in Mali. As Dr. Téguété reminds us: “Every vaccinated girl means one less woman facing this disease.”