On October 30 in Korofina, a neighborhood of Bamako, a public awareness session brought together women and young girls at the local civil registry. Amin Dem, a midwife, opened the discussion with a frank observation: « At first, there was a lot of reluctance. Girls were afraid, and so were parents. But through education and dialogue, things have changed dramatically, » she shared.

The primary concern remains the persistent myth that the vaccine could cause infertility. « When we take the time to explain—especially in their own language—understanding follows, » Amin Dem noted.

a major turning point in prevention

Launched in November 2024, the HPV vaccine represents a historic breakthrough for Mali. With a single-dose schedule now providing full protection, more than 145,000 girls aged 10 were vaccinated between January and September 2025. Of these, over 113,000 were in school, while approximately 32,400 out-of-school girls were reached. Authorities acknowledge that additional efforts are needed to reach the latter group, who are often most at risk of being left behind.

Dr. Ibrahima Téguété, a gynecologist-obstetrician at the Point G University Hospital, sees the campaign aligning Mali 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 access for 90% with lesions. « The vaccine’s introduction is a huge milestone. It finally gives us a way to act in primary prevention, » he said. He remains realistic about system limitations: « We only have one radiotherapy unit. Reaching that final 90% will be difficult. »

collective mobilization drives progress

While the campaign is grounded in public health structures, civil society has played a vital role. In Bamako, the NGO Solidaris223 has conducted numerous awareness sessions since launch. « We’ve reached every district. Mothers came to us asking where they could vaccinate their daughters, » said Amina Dicko, the organization’s president.

At Bamako’s Djiguiya Center, an entire day was dedicated to vaccination. « Seventy boarding students received their dose, and none experienced side effects, » reported Director Mme Togo Mariam Sidibé.

Adolescents are sharing their own stories too. Awa, 10, admitted: « I was scared of the needle, but it was quick. I’m happy because it protects us for later. »

Haby, vaccinated at school, told her family: « Our teacher explained why it matters. I asked my mom, and she reassured me. I’m proud to be protected. » For Dr. Téguété, these stories reflect collective commitment: « Initial supplies were used up rapidly—proof of shared dedication. »

resistance wanes but persists

Myths about infertility continue to fuel some resistance. « Some claim the vaccine is meant to harm us. That’s completely false, » Dr. Téguété emphasized. Amin Dem witnesses this shift daily: « Now, some mothers come on their own to request the vaccine. Once explained properly, attitudes change. »

Fannata Dicko’s experience illustrates this transformation: « I vaccinated my daughter because cervical cancer is a grave threat. My mother-in-law passed away from it this year—I saw firsthand how it destroys lives. Prevention is the only way to ensure my daughter never faces this. »

Despite progress, vaccine deployment faces hurdles. « Between Mopti and Gao, road travel is sometimes impossible, » Dr. Téguété acknowledged. To overcome these barriers, some shipments are airlifted to regional capitals.

to go further

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• Despite misinformation waves, Pakistan’s HPV vaccine campaign advances

The vaccine remains entirely free for all 10-year-old girls, a guarantee maintained through joint efforts by the Malian government and technical partners like Gavi, which secures reduced-cost access. This ensures equity even in remote areas. « If we sustain this effort for a few more years, we’ll vaccinate every girl aged 9 to 14, » the specialist projected.

a hopeful horizon ahead

Prevention efforts aren’t new. From 2016 to 2022, the Weekend 70 initiative raised cervical cancer screening rates in Bamako’s district from 15% to over 70%. But misinformation remains a major obstacle. « What people don’t know, they fear. We must keep explaining, informing, and talking, » Dr. Téguété insisted.

He also praised religious leaders’ involvement: « Their support has reassured many families. » In Bamako, results are visible—parents are more confident, and more girls are receiving the vaccine. « Bamako isn’t Mali, but it’s a strong indicator of what we can achieve together, » he said.

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

For professionals and NGOs alike, the HPV vaccine marks the beginning of profound change in Malian women’s health. As Dr. Téguété reminds us: « Behind every vaccinated girl is a woman saved. »