On October 8, 2026, the National Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) in Mali organized a workshop to present its latest statistical findings to users, technical partners, and financial stakeholders. The event, presided over by INSTAT Director General Dr. Arouna Sougané, featured five reports covering various aspects of the country's socio-economic landscape. The goal was to facilitate better understanding and utilization of the data, as well as gather feedback and recommendations for future improvements.
The workshop focused on the results of the first and second rounds of the Modular and Permanent Household Survey (EMOP), as well as reports on gender and the seventh edition of the Mali Demographic and Health Survey (EDSM). These reports provide essential data for understanding Mali's realities, identifying challenges faced by its population, and informing decision-making. Dr. Sougané emphasized the importance of making these data more accessible and useful to stakeholders, including academics, researchers, administrations, private sector actors, and media outlets.
The EMOP survey results for the first quarter of 2026 reveal progress in access to essential services, but also persistent disparities based on residence, sex, age, and region. In education, the gross enrollment rate for Fundamental I is estimated at 81.8%, while the net enrollment rate for children aged 7-12 is 66%. At Fundamental II, the gross enrollment rate is 58.1%, and the net enrollment rate is 36.5%. Overall, 27.2% of children are out of school at Fundamental I, and 34.7% at Fundamental II.
The data also highlights challenges in the education sector, with significant work needed to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure quality education for all. The literacy rate for the population aged 15 and above is 36.5%. In the health sector, while the morbidity rate decreased by 6.7 points between the two survey rounds, the situation remains concerning for children under 5, with a rate of 24.5%.
The EMOP 2025 analysis on gender reveals persistent gaps that affect access to economic opportunities. Among the population aged 15 and above, 65.5% of women have no formal education, compared to 52.5% of men. Women also dedicate an average of 4.1 hours per day to unpaid domestic work, while men spend 0.5 hours. These disparities contribute to vulnerability and hinder equal opportunities between women and men, ultimately impacting societal development.
The workshop facilitated exchanges between INSTAT and participants, clarifying certain concepts and reaffirming the importance of statistical data in designing public policies and improving living conditions. The discussions underscored the need for continued collaboration and data-driven decision-making to drive development in Mali. By sharing these findings, INSTAT aims to promote better understanding and utilization of statistical data.
The workshop demonstrates INSTAT's commitment to producing and disseminating essential data for Mali's development. By engaging with stakeholders and gathering feedback, INSTAT can refine its data collection and analysis processes, ultimately contributing to more informed decision-making and improved living conditions for Mali's population.
Key points
- INSTAT presents findings from EMOP and EDSM surveys to stakeholders
- Data highlights progress and persistent challenges in education, health, and gender equality
- Workshop aims to promote better understanding and utilization of statistical data for development
