Accelerating immunization efforts in Mali
Mali’s progress in protecting its citizens from Covid-19 has not yet reached the desired milestones. While the government’s objective was to immunize 70% of the population aged 12 and above, the actual vaccination rate is currently stalled at just 8%. To address this shortfall, a United Nations delegation visited the country in early October to assist local authorities in executing the National Deployment and Vaccination Plan (PNDV).
Ted Chaiban, the lead coordinator for global vaccination readiness at the UN, noted that “various campaigns are currently being implemented. We are working alongside the government and its partners to support these initiatives and shield the population from Covid.”
Overcoming public skepticism in Bamako
During his time in Bamako, Chaiban highlighted the vital role played by the Malian Red Cross. The organization has established a comprehensive framework to fight the pandemic, which includes training volunteers and launching awareness programs. Additionally, they are distributing protective materials, even as the severity of the virus has decreased in the West African region lately.
Despite these measures, the challenge of convincing a reluctant public remains significant. Many citizens in Mali continue to show hesitation toward the vaccine, especially as the presence of Covid-19 appears to be in retreat.
