Mission Mali

Mali is one of the transit countries for the migrant populations of Sub-Saharan origin heading towards Europe. Its immigration policy allows nationals from other African countries to enter the country without a visa. In addition, it is to Mali that the Algerian authorities return illegal migrants apprehended on their territory. Women are subject to the full force of the poor health conditions and the difficulty of accessing healthcare. Therefore, the high maternal mortality rate (580‰) can be explained by the consequences of vesico-vaginal type fistulas.

Health watch amongst migrants

Tinzaouatene, then Gao

Activities:

Started in September 2005, the pilot project aims to set up a programme aimed at improving the health and welfare conditions of the migrant populations in transit through Mali and to bear witness to rights violations by:

• observing the living conditions and trajectories of the migrant populations in transit;
• evaluating the conditions for migrant populations whereby they have access to healthcare in Tinzaouatene and Gao regions;
• developing an information network and gathering testimonies of violations of which the migrant populations are victims

Outlook:

End the pilot project after defining a suitable long-term programme.

Surgery of exclusion

Mopti Region

Activities:

MdM is continuing its programme of prevention and treatment of vesico-vaginal fistulas. This has four aspects to it:

• surgical treatment of women;
• training local surgeons and the operating theatre team;
• spreading prevention messages (on local radio, through theatre);
• literacy sessions for patients who want it.

Outlook:

Continue training surgeons and a gynaecologist in fistula surgery and set up a national project for treating vesico-vaginal fistulas
integrating the work carried out by Mopti hospital. Support the growing autonomy of Mopti hospital until the new hospital is built in Sevare.

July 2006