Côte d’Ivoire: government reinforces zero tolerance policy after five young girls suffer genital mutilation in Bongouanou

Bongouanou, Côte d’Ivoire – The Ministry of Women, Family and Children has unequivocally reiterated the Ivorian government’s steadfast “zero tolerance” stance against female genital mutilation (FGM). This strong reaffirmation follows the brutal excision of five young girls in the Bongouanou region.

The distressing incident unfolded during the night of Tuesday, June 30, 2026, within the Dioulakro district, part of Kangandi village in the Bongouanou commune. The victims, aged between three and nine years old, were subjected to an act described as being of “extreme violence.” This horrific practice resulted in significant hemorrhaging, urinary retention, and severe psychological trauma for the minors involved.

Prompted by an anonymous alert, local authorities mobilized swiftly. Teams from the regional directorate of the Ministry of Women, Family and Children, alongside the Judicial Protection Service for Children and Youth (SPJEJ), and officers from the Bongouanou police station, immediately intervened to provide aid and secure the children.

The five girls received urgent medical attention at the Bongouanou Departmental Public Hospital (EPHD). They are now safe and under the protection of the ministry in a specialized facility, where they are receiving comprehensive medical, psychological, and social support tailored to their recovery.

On the legal front, law enforcement officers apprehended two suspects immediately following their intervention. Competent judicial authorities have been engaged, and investigations are actively underway to identify and bring to justice all individuals responsible for, or complicit in, this heinous act.

The ministry underscored that female genital mutilation remains a grave criminal offense, subject to severe penalties under Ivorian legislation. This firm condemnation aligns with national commitments articulated on June 13, 2026, by First Lady Dominique Ouattara, who pledged to intensify efforts to eradicate all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) across the nation.

In light of the persistent challenge posed by this harmful practice, Ivorian authorities are appealing to the public for heightened vigilance and urge citizens to systematically report any suspected acts or attempts of genital mutilation.