Despite aiming to vaccinate 70% of Malians aged 12 and older against covid-19, the country has achieved just 8% coverage so far. To address this gap, a United Nations delegation visited the country in early October to collaborate with Malian authorities in implementing the National Deployment and Vaccination Plan (PNDV).

Ted Chaiban, the UN’s chief coordinator for covid-19 vaccination readiness, emphasized the urgency of these efforts: “Multiple vaccination campaigns are underway. We’re here to support the government and its partners in reinforcing these initiatives and safeguarding the population from covid-19.”

obstacles in convincing the public

The Malian Red Cross has made significant strides by organizing volunteer training and community sensitization programs, alongside distributing protective equipment. However, persuading a portion of the population—already hesitant about vaccines—remains an uphill battle, especially as covid-19 cases decline in West Africa.