Malians demand universal healthcare amid funding and access challenges

The Mali government has made strides in healthcare indicators like infant mortality and life expectancy since launching its universal health coverage initiative in 2018 (Mathauer et al., 2019). Yet, significant barriers persist. A shortage of trained medical staff, inadequate funding, and ongoing political instability continue to hinder progress (World Bank, 2024; Touré et al., 2022; UN Trust Fund for Human Security, 2025; Arie, 2019).

Rural communities face the brunt of these challenges, with over half of the nation’s physicians concentrated in the capital, Bamako (Sangare et al., 2021). The World Health Organization’s 2024 Universal Health Coverage Service Coverage Index ranks Mali at 41/100—below both the African average (44) and the global benchmark (68).

Public sentiment: healthcare tops citizen priorities

Findings from Afrobarometer Round 10’s healthcare-focused survey reveal that Malians view health as their government’s most urgent concern. Only about one in seven adults has health coverage, and many worry about accessing or affording essential care. An overwhelming majority believe the state should ensure universal access to quality healthcare, even if it means higher taxes.

Mixed experiences with public healthcare

Among respondents who used public clinics or hospitals in the past year, experiences varied widely. While many secured necessary treatments, others reported financial barriers, long wait times, and shortages of medicines or equipment. Nearly half of Malians said a family member went without needed care in the previous year.

Despite these hurdles, public confidence in the Ministry of Health remains high, with two-thirds approving its efforts to improve basic healthcare.