Mali

Improving diagnostics and surveillance

The Mérieux Foundation supports Mali in strengthening its diagnostic capacity with benchmark infrastructure such as the Rodolphe Mérieux Laboratory in Bamako, housed within the Charles Mérieux Center for Infectious Disease, and with regional programs.

Mali is a founding member of the West African Network of Medical Biology Laboratories (RESAOLAB), which strengthens the structure of laboratory systems by reinforcing governance, supporting training and quality management, and setting up surveillance. This work has included renovating infrastructure, notably in Mopti, Kayes, and Sikasso, contributing to sustainable regional coverage for the biomedical sector.

Training is also the foundation of our work in Mali. We have been helping to strengthen the skills of existing laboratory technicians since 2007, creating a continuing training program. In addition to biomedical analysis techniques, the program also covers good laboratory practice in terms of quality assurance, biosafety, and waste management. With a view to ensuring local ownership of projects, the course is now part of the master’s program at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, with our ongoing support.

The Foundation also awards grants to improve the role of pharmacists in the healthcare system. These grants have been awarded to two Malian pharmacists enabling them to follow the Diplôme d’Études Spécialisées (DES) postgraduate degree in medical biology in Bamako.

Advancing public health

The Mérieux Foundation supports applied research and training for healthcare professionals to improve public health in Mali. As a member of the GABRIEL network, the Charles Mérieux Center for Infectious Disease is involved in several research programs on the region’s priority themes, such as febrile syndromes, tuberculosis, respiratory viruses, and emerging pathogens.

Support for global health

The Mérieux Foundation takes a global approach to health, acting on social determinants and supporting vulnerable populations. In fragile political and social contexts, we work with local partners to develop projects for the long term, improving the living conditions of these populations in a sustainable way.

For example, we contributed to the construction of the Youssouf Issabré maternity hospital in Sirakoro Meguetana, on the outskirts of Bamako, to improve conditions for women and newborn babies.

We also support local associations working to provide medical, psychological, and social care for children and young people living on the streets of Bamako. These partnerships strengthen health education activities, mobile aid, and access to care. We are also helping to set up missions for specialist medicine, general practitioner training, and support for health centers in three districts of the Timbuktu region.