In Korofina, a neighborhood in Bamako, a Thursday morning gathering at the local civil registry office brings together mothers and young girls. Amin Dem, a midwife, opens the discussion with a frank admission: “At first, there was a lot of hesitation. Girls were afraid. Parents were afraid. But through education and dialogue, attitudes have shifted.”

The biggest concern? A persistent myth that the HPV vaccine could cause infertility. “When we take the time to explain—especially in local languages—people understand,” she says. “Fear comes from not knowing.”

a breakthrough in cervical cancer prevention

The HPV vaccine was introduced in Mali in November 2024, marking a turning point in public health. With a single-dose schedule now offering full protection, over 145,000 10-year-old girls were vaccinated between January and September 2025. Of these, more than 113,000 were in school, while about 32,400 out-of-school girls were reached. Authorities acknowledge the need to expand efforts to include more girls from vulnerable groups who are at higher risk of being left behind.

Dr. Ibrahima Téguété, a gynecologist-obstetrician at the Point G University Hospital, sees this progress as a step closer to the WHO’s 90-70-90 targets: vaccinating 90% of girls against HPV, screening 70% of women at key ages, and ensuring treatment for 90% of those with lesions. “The introduction of the HPV vaccine is a major achievement. It finally allows us to act at the primary prevention level,” he says. He remains realistic, though, about system limitations: “We only have one radiotherapy unit. Reaching the final ‘90’ will be difficult.”

community mobilization drives success

While the campaign relies on public health facilities, civil society has played a crucial role. In Bamako, the NGO Solidaris223 has led numerous awareness sessions since the launch. “We’ve reached every district. Mothers came to us asking where to get their daughters vaccinated,” says its president, Amina Dicko.

At the Djiguiya Center in Bamako, an entire day was dedicated to vaccination. “Seventy boarding students received their dose, and none experienced side effects,” reports the director, Ms. Togo Mariam Sidibé.

Teenagers are speaking up too. Awa, 10, shares: “I was scared of the needle, but it was quick. I’m happy because it protects us for the future.” Haby, vaccinated at school, adds: “The teacher explained why it’s important. I asked my mother, and she reassured me. I’m proud to be vaccinated.” For Dr. Téguété, these stories show real commitment: “The first vaccine batches were used up quickly. That proves there’s a collective will.”

misinformation still lingers, but fading

Rumors about fertility continue to fuel some resistance. “Some spread false claims that the vaccine is meant to harm us. That’s completely untrue,” insists Dr. Téguété. Amin Dem sees this change firsthand: “Now, some mothers come on their own to ask for the vaccine. Once you take the time to explain, everything changes.”

Fannata Dicko’s story illustrates this shift. “I vaccinated my daughter because cervical cancer is a serious illness. My mother-in-law died from it this year. I saw how much pain she endured. I chose to prevent my daughter from ever facing that.”

Despite progress, challenges remain. “Between Mopti and Gao, road travel is sometimes impossible,” notes Dr. Téguété. To overcome this, some vaccine shipments are airlifted to regional capitals.

The HPV vaccine is provided free of charge to all 10-year-old girls, a policy supported by the government and partners like Gavi, which helps reduce vaccine costs for the country. This ensures equitable access even in remote areas. “If we maintain this effort for a few more years, we’ll have vaccinated every girl aged 9 to 14,” predicts the specialist.

a hopeful future despite obstacles

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%. But misinformation remains a major barrier. “What people don’t know, they fear. We must keep explaining, informing, and talking,” insists Dr. Téguété.

He also praises the role of religious leaders. “Their support has reassured many families.” In Bamako, results are visible: parents are more confident, and more girls are getting vaccinated. “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 beginning of a profound transformation in women’s health in Mali. As Dr. Téguété reminds us, “Behind every vaccinated girl is a woman saved.”