The fourth annual Mousso d’Or ceremony, held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Ouagadougou, honored Burkinabè women whose dedication, leadership, and achievements significantly advance the nation’s development. This prestigious event, designed to champion feminine excellence, recognized outstanding women and organizations across various sectors of activity in Burkina Faso.
As the evening concluded, the coveted Mousso d’Or 2026 trophy was presented to Salmata Sawadogo, who serves as the President and CEO of Salmata Commerce Général.
This distinguished recognition celebrates her impressive entrepreneurial journey and her unwavering commitment to fostering the economic empowerment of women throughout the country.
The laureate expressed profound gratitude to the organizers and all who have supported her path. For Salmata Sawadogo, this award serves as a powerful incentive to persist in her endeavors and to inspire more women to trust their capabilities and embrace entrepreneurship.
In other key categories, Talato Ouédraogo was honored with the “Pépite d’or” (Golden Nugget) prize. The association Wend Guetta received recognition in the “Association” category. Charlotte Milliogo of the USFA was celebrated in the “Sport” category, Mam Sank excelled in “Restauration,” and Almaty Meria was acknowledged as the top “Artiste musicienne.”
Each awardee received a distinctive trophy, an elegant sash, and a certificate of recognition for their achievements. Additionally, an honorary trophy was bestowed upon Adja Abibou Sana Ouédraogo, acknowledging her remarkable journey and sustained commitment.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of several special awards, notably recognizing the Forces de défense et de sécurité (FDS) and the Volontaires pour la défense de la patrie (VDP). These accolades honored their vital contributions to upholding peace and fostering social cohesion across the nation.
Mohamado Sanfo, the event’s Commissioner General, emphasized that the Mousso d’Or initiative is dedicated to shining a spotlight on women who demonstrate exceptional skill and leadership in their respective fields. He eloquently stated, “When a woman is happy, an entire family finds happiness.”
He further highlighted that Mousso d’Or extends its impact through social initiatives supporting vulnerable women. This year, forty widows of FDS members who bravely fell in the line of duty received comprehensive training and support aimed at bolstering their economic independence.
Despite various challenges faced during previous editions, Mohamado Sanfo expressed immense satisfaction with the event’s continuous growth and the escalating enthusiasm it garners. This year’s strong turnout for the Ouagadougou news event underscores its growing importance.
“We have encountered obstacles, but our passion compels us to press forward. This year’s significant mobilization truly reflects the widespread interest in promoting women’s empowerment,” he affirmed, emphasizing the positive reception within Burkina Faso English speaking communities and beyond.
In total, this fourth edition saw awards distributed across sixteen categories, alongside seven special prizes and one honorary trophy. Talato Ouédraogo, the “Pépite d’or” laureate, lauded the initiative as a powerful catalyst encouraging women to strive for unparalleled excellence.
“We urge all women who aspire to embark on new ventures to do so without hesitation. Today, feminine excellence is not only recognized but actively encouraged,” she declared, echoing the positive sentiment across Faso news today.
Through this successful fourth edition, the Mousso d’Or organization unequivocally reaffirms its commitment to celebrating women who, through their tireless work, remarkable resilience, and profound dedication, contribute daily to the flourishing of Burkina Faso.