As part of its strong commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, Canada continues to champion the health and rights of women and girls globally.

“This initiative represents a great opportunity to share expertise between health professionals and make the health system in Mali more gender sensitive. Giving women and girls access to improved health services will allow them to gain better control over their bodies and lives, empowering them to reach their full potential.”

- Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“Investing in women’s and girls’ health benefits everyone. Women and girls that who are in control of their bodies and make their own decisions become empowered in other spheres of their lives, contributing meaningfully to their families and communities and helping to build a better world.”

- Maryam Monsef, Minister of International Development and Minister for Women and Gender Equality

• In March 2017, Canada announced $650 million over three years to address gaps in sexual and reproductive health and rights around the world.

• In June 2019, Canada reaffirmed its commitment by announcing that it would raise its funding to reach $1.4 billion annually, starting in 2023, to support sexual and reproductive health rights and maternal, newborn and child health.

• In the fiscal year 2018 to 2019, Canada contributed to strengthening Mali’s health system and improving health services by supporting the training of 1,260 paramedics and doctors, including 795 women, in the skills-based approach. In addition, 300 nurses and midwives (almost 60% of whom are women) graduated that year.

Associated links

• Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy
• Sexual and reproductive health and rights
• Canada’s engagement in Mali

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