In the space of a few weeks, Burkinabe courts have handed down two significant verdicts against the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) . Seven people have been convicted, illustrating the state's commitment to firmly enforcing the law, even in the heart of rural areas.

Bobo-Dioulasso case: Complicity punished

On February 17, 2026, three women appeared before the Bobo-Dioulasso criminal court. The case, triggered by an anonymous tip , concerned the excision of a four-year-old girl in the village of Kiri.

1. The facts: Taking advantage of a stay for a wedding, the child's mother and two accomplices arranged for the procedure at a local circumciser's before attempting to treat the wounds with hot water.
2. The defense: In the dock, the defendants oscillated between ignorance of the law and the weight of tradition, while expressing regrets.
3. The verdict: They received a 12-month suspended sentence and a fine of 500,000 CFA francs . The court noted that, depending on the severity of the offense, sentences can reach up to 10 years of imprisonment.

Public court hearing in Pouni: Judging as closely as possible to reality

On March 3, 2026, the Koudougou High Court traveled to Pouni for a mobile court hearing. This initiative aims to have a direct impact on the communities.

Four individuals were tried for the excision of four babies, aged only 3 to 24 months .

1. The sentence: 12 months in prison, including 3 months of mandatory imprisonment , as well as a fine of 500,000 CFA francs for each convicted person.
2. The legal framework: The judges relied on articles 513-7 and 131-8 of the Penal Code, emphasizing that excision is a major violation of physical integrity.

A global and community-based struggle

Supported by organizations like Children Believe , these legal actions are taking place outside the traditional courts to raise public awareness. The magistrates' message is clear: the fight against FGM is everyone's responsibility.

"Female genital mutilation has irreversible consequences for young girls; its eradication requires collective action, from denunciation to punishment."