Despite notable improvements in recent years—such as reductions in infant and under-five mortality rates, maternal health outcomes, and increased life expectancy—the Mali still faces significant challenges in delivering equitable healthcare. The World Health Organization and UNICEF report steady progress, yet access to quality medical services remains uneven, particularly outside urban centers like Bamako.
Efforts to establish universal health coverage have been underway since 2018, when the government launched a comprehensive health insurance scheme. However, systemic barriers persist. A shortage of trained medical professionals, chronic underfunding, and ongoing political instability continue to hinder progress. Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with over half of the nation’s physicians concentrated in the capital, leaving vast regions underserved.
According to the World Health Organization’s Universal Health Coverage Service Coverage Index, Mali scored just 41 out of 100 in 2024. This places the country below both the African average (44) and the global benchmark (68), underscoring the urgent need for reform.
Public demand for universal healthcare
Findings from Afrobarometer’s Round 10 survey reveal that healthcare is the top priority for Malians. Only about one in seven adults currently has health insurance, and widespread concerns persist over the affordability and availability of essential medical care. An overwhelming majority of citizens believe the government must prioritize universal healthcare access, even if it requires higher taxation.
Mixed experiences in public healthcare
Among those who sought treatment at public clinics or hospitals in the past year, experiences were mixed. While many reported receiving necessary care, frequent complaints included exorbitant costs, prolonged wait times, and inconsistent supplies of medicine and equipment. Nearly half of respondents stated that a family member had gone without needed medical attention during the previous year.
Public confidence in healthcare progress
Despite these challenges, two-thirds of Malians express approval for the government’s efforts to improve basic healthcare services. Trust in the Ministry of Health remains relatively high, reflecting cautious optimism amid ongoing reforms.
