Teen Peer Education in Mali

Globally, an estimated 15 percent of young women give birth before age 18. Early childbearing and delivery during youth derail healthy development into adulthood. UNICEF reports that as of May 2021, among girls aged 15-19 globally, maternal conditions are among the top four causes of mortality and disabled life. Among the other top choices are communicable health and mental health conditions that have negative impacts on the health and education of girls. Socially, pregnant girls are pressured or forcibly dropped out of school, impacting their career prospects, quality of life, and that of their child. Social stigma surrounding early pregnancy also brings severe mental health consequences as the girls can lose their support system in their family, friends, and peers. The Teen Peer Education Program actively recruits the next generation of Malians into a peer mentoring program. 14 to 18-year-old adolescents and young adults are trained through an engaging, teen health education program that aims to address health issues faced by youth in Mali. They also aim to reduce stigmatization through community conversation.

The Chez Rosalie program at the GAIA Vaccine Foundation revealed that most of the new HIV infections in Bamako, Mali being reported were for teen mothers. Not only were teenagers at risk of unplanned pregnancy, but they were also at risk of acquiring HIV infection with their first pregnancy. The Teen Peer Education Program sparks conversation among youth to raise awareness about preventative sexual healthcare and the resources available.

Donate today to support this life changing work at GAIA Vaccine Foundation. Support the next generation of bright Malians!