In the heart of Bamako, Kadidia, a 19-year-old student, shares her story of overcoming societal stigma to seek sexual and reproductive health services. « I was too embarrassed to discuss contraception—it’s still a taboo in many communities here. I feared judgment or gossip from neighbors, » she admits. Her experience reflects the challenges faced by thousands of young women in Mali, where social, cultural, and structural barriers often restrict access to essential health services.
a pressing need for accessible reproductive health services
The stakes are high. In 2024, Mali recorded 583 maternal deaths, including 89 among adolescents aged 15 to 19. Early and unintended pregnancies remain a significant risk, underscoring the urgent need for accessible and youth-friendly health services. While the country has made progress—with 559,493 young women and adolescents accessing modern contraceptive methods in 2024 compared to 480,682 in 2023—the gap persists. With nearly 4.8 million women of reproductive age in the country, the demand for tailored health solutions is undeniable.
Empowering young women with reproductive health services isn’t just about access—it’s about transformation. These services enable informed decision-making about their bodies and futures, reduce unintended pregnancies, prevent sexually transmitted infections, and enhance overall well-being. Yet, in a society where taboos run deep and risks loom large, ensuring these rights is a critical public health priority.
who’s leadership in advancing reproductive rights in Mali
The World Health Organization (WHO), supported by key partners, is working alongside Mali’s government to implement a robust program aimed at strengthening sexual and reproductive health rights and access. This initiative spans legal reforms, healthcare provider training, medical equipment provision, and the establishment of youth-friendly clinics. It also focuses on generating reliable data to shape public health policies effectively.
« This program aligns with our national strategic plan and prioritizes the rights of young people and adolescents, » explains Dr. N’Tji Keita, Head of the Maternal and Child Health Department at Mali’s National Office of Reproductive Health. « We’ve trained magistrates on WHO guidelines, launched a national health observatory, and enhanced our maternal death surveillance system. »
The WHO’s role extends beyond technical support—it acts as a catalyst for coordination and supervision. Thanks to its efforts, Mali now publishes its first national bulletin on sexual and reproductive health indicators, alongside the 2022 National Health Accounts. These tools provide critical insights, enabling data-driven decision-making and strategic planning.
« We’ve helped set up a Mother-Child-Adolescent clinic in Sikasso, offering integrated family planning and gender-based violence services. A mobile team is also ready to serve humanitarian zones like Macina, bringing essential services closer to vulnerable populations, » says Dr. Sylla Ousmane, WHO’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Program Manager in Mali.
midwives at the forefront of change
Trained and dedicated midwives are the backbone of this transformation. Their continuous professional development has significantly improved the quality of care for young women. Aïssata, a midwife at the Kebila community health center, shares her experience: « I’ve undergone training in focused antenatal care, family planning, STI/HIV/AIDS management, and medical prescriptions. This has not only enhanced my skills but also allowed me to serve young women without judgment. »
Assetou, a mentoring midwife in Yanfolila, 160 kilometers south of Bamako, echoes this sentiment. « These trainings have revolutionized my approach, especially in listening, availability, and respecting consent, » she says. Between 2019 and 2025, the number of adolescents accessing sexual and reproductive health services at her center more than doubled, rising from 2,330 to 5,121.
The impact of these efforts goes beyond mere statistics. Through school campaigns, radio programs on sexuality, and training providers in empathetic listening and consent, young girls are increasingly stepping into health centers. Dialogue is breaking down taboos, trust is building, and attitudes are shifting for the better.
For Kadidia, the change is tangible. « The staff at the health center welcomed me without judgment, listened to me, and provided clear advice, » she recalls. « I urge other young girls not to be afraid—these services are here to help us. »
