Following a brutal incident involving the genital mutilation of five young girls in Bongouanou, the Ministry of Women, Family, and Children has reiterated the Ivorian government’s unwavering “zero tolerance” stance against female genital mutilation (FGM).
The harrowing events unfolded during the night of Tuesday, June 30, 2026, within the Dioulakro neighborhood of Kangandi village, located in the Bongouanou commune. The victims, ranging from three to nine years old, were subjected to an “extremely violent” procedure. This barbaric act resulted in significant hemorrhages, urinary retention, and profound psychological trauma for these young minors.
Prompted by an anonymous tip-off, teams from the regional directorate of Women, Family, and Children, alongside the Judicial Protection Service for Children and Youth (SPJEJ) and the Bongouanou police station, swiftly mobilized to rescue the children.
After receiving urgent medical attention at the Bongouanou Departmental Public Hospital (EPHD), the five girls have since been safely relocated to a specialized center. Here, under the ministry’s protective care, they are receiving comprehensive medical, psychological, and social support.
In terms of legal proceedings, two individuals were apprehended immediately following the intervention by law enforcement. Competent authorities have initiated investigations to identify and bring to justice all perpetrators and accomplices involved in this egregious act.
The ministry emphasized that female genital mutilation remains a severe criminal offense under Ivorian law. This resolute condemnation aligns with the national commitments reaffirmed by First Lady Dominique Ouattara on June 13, 2026, aimed at eradicating all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) across the nation.
Confronted with the persistent challenge posed by this harmful practice, authorities are urging the public to maintain heightened vigilance and to systematically report any act or attempted act of genital mutilation.
