Bongouanou, July 2026 — The Ministry of Women, Family, and Child Affairs has doubled down on Côte d’Ivoire’s strict “zero tolerance” policy against female genital mutilation (FGM) following a violent incident in Bongouanou. A statement released by the ministry condemned the recent excision of five young girls in the Dioulakro neighborhood of Kangandi village, where the victims, aged three to nine, endured extreme violence.
The attack resulted in severe complications, including heavy bleeding, urinary retention, and deep psychological trauma for the minors. Swift action was taken after an anonymous tip led authorities to intervene immediately. Teams from the regional directorate of Women, Family, and Child Affairs, the Judicial Protection Service for Children and Youth, and local police arrived on the scene to rescue the children.
The five victims were rushed to the Bongouanou Departmental Public Hospital for emergency care before being placed under the ministry’s protection in a specialized facility. There, they receive comprehensive medical, psychological, and social support to aid their recovery.
On the judicial front, two suspects were apprehended during the operation. Investigations are underway to identify and prosecute all individuals involved in this criminal act. The ministry emphasized that FGM is a serious criminal offense under Ivorian law, with severe penalties in place to deter such practices.
This latest crackdown aligns with national efforts to combat gender-based violence, following renewed commitments made in mid-2026 by First Lady Dominique Ouattara. Authorities are urging communities to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases or attempts of genital mutilation immediately.
