She Leads Mali: GYW perspectives are included in gender-responsive laws and practices and societal norms & practices Mali is a highly patriarchal society where men have exercise authority and power at all levels, from the household to the economic, social and political spheres. Women are expected to respect and obey men&rsquo;s and boys&rsquo; decisions without questioning. A survey conducted in 2013 reported that over 80% of people in Mali believe gender equality is an imported concept that does not resonate with African values and belief systems.