Salmata Sawadogo honored as top woman of the year at Mousso d’Or 2026 in Burkina Faso

The fourth annual Mousso d’Or ceremony, held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Ouagadougou, proudly celebrated Burkinabe women whose unwavering commitment, strong leadership, and significant accomplishments are actively driving the nation’s progress. This event, dedicated to promoting and recognizing feminine excellence, paid tribute to numerous women and organizations across various sectors of activity. 

As the evening concluded, the coveted Mousso d’Or 2026 trophy was presented to Salmata Sawadogo, the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Salmata Commerce Général.

This distinguished award acknowledges her remarkable entrepreneurial journey and her dedicated efforts towards fostering the economic empowerment of women throughout Burkina Faso.

The laureate conveyed her profound gratitude to the organizers and all who supported her path. She regards this recognition not merely as an award, but as a compelling invitation to intensify her endeavors and to inspire more women to embrace their capabilities and embark on entrepreneurial ventures.

In other competitive categories, Talato Ouédraogo secured the prestigious «Pépite d’or» award, while the Wend Guetta association was celebrated in the «Association» category. Charlotte Milliogo, representing the USFA, achieved distinction in «Sport», Mam Sank was recognized in «Restauration», and Almaty Meria received accolades in the «Artiste musicienne» category.

Each deserving laureate departed with a beautifully crafted trophy, an elegant sash, and a certificate of recognition. An honorary trophy was also bestowed upon Adja Abibou Sana Ouédraogo, acknowledging her remarkable career and unwavering dedication.

The ceremony was further distinguished by the presentation of several special awards, notably to the Burkinabe Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP). These accolades recognized their invaluable contribution to maintaining peace and fostering social cohesion within the nation.

According to Mohamado Sanfo, the General Commissioner for the event, the core mission of Mousso d’Or is to shine a spotlight on women who demonstrate exceptional skill and achievement in their respective fields. He eloquently stated, «When a woman is happy, an entire family is happy», underscoring the ripple effect of women’s well-being.

He further elaborated that Mousso d’Or extends its impact through social initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable women. This year, forty widows of FDS members who made the ultimate sacrifice on the front lines received specialized training and comprehensive support, designed to bolster their autonomy and resilience.

Despite various challenges encountered during previous editions, Mohamado Sanfo expressed immense satisfaction with the event’s continuous evolution and the growing enthusiasm it generates.

«We have faced difficulties, but our passion drives us forward. This year, we witnessed a strong mobilization, which clearly demonstrates the significant interest in promoting women’s roles and achievements», he affirmed.

In total, this fourth edition saw awards distributed across sixteen distinct categories, along with seven special prizes and one honorary trophy. Talato Ouédraogo, the laureate of the «Pépite d’or» category, commended the initiative for its powerful encouragement of women to strive for excellence.

«We wholeheartedly invite all women aspiring to embark on new ventures to do so without hesitation. Today, feminine excellence is not only recognized but actively encouraged and celebrated», she declared.

Through the success of this fourth edition, the Mousso d’Or awards powerfully reaffirm their commitment to celebrating the women who, through their diligent work, remarkable resilience, and profound engagement, contribute daily to the flourishing development of Burkina Faso.