Côte d’Ivoire government reiterates ‘zero tolerance’ stance following Bongouanou FGM incident

The Ivorian government, through the Ministry of Women, Family, and Children, has unequivocally restated its “zero tolerance” policy against female genital mutilation (FGM). This firm declaration comes in the wake of a brutal FGM incident involving five young girls in Bongouanou.

The harrowing events unfolded during the night of Tuesday, June 30, 2026, within the Dioulakro district of Kangandi village, situated in the Bongouanou commune. The five victims, ranging in age from three to nine years old, were subjected to an act of “extreme violence.” This horrific procedure resulted in significant hemorrhages, urinary retention, and severe psychological trauma for the young minors.

Responding swiftly to an anonymous report, dedicated teams from the regional Directorate of Women, Family, and Children, alongside the Judicial Child and Youth Protection Service (SPJEJ) and the Bongouanou police station, immediately mobilized to rescue the children.

After receiving urgent medical attention at the Bongouanou Departmental Public Hospital (EPHD), the five girls are now safely housed in a specialized center. Under the Ministry’s protection, they are receiving comprehensive medical, psychological, and social support to aid their recovery.

Regarding legal proceedings, law enforcement officers apprehended two suspects during their initial intervention. Competent authorities have initiated a thorough investigation to identify and bring to justice all individuals responsible for, or complicit in, this heinous act.

The Ministry emphasized that FGM remains a severe criminal offense under Ivorian law, carrying stringent penalties. This unequivocal condemnation aligns with national commitments reiterated 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 ongoing prevalence of this harmful practice, authorities are urging the public to exercise heightened vigilance and to systematically report any act or attempted act of female genital mutilation.