Ouagadougou: An attempt at forced marriage involving a 16-year-old girl was thwarted in Koudougou, thanks to citizen vigilance and intervention by the Nando Regional Brigade for the Protection of Children. The case came to light on July 17, 2026, following a tip-off from a family member living abroad. A rapid response team quickly identified and located the suspect, a local merchant operating near the Grand Mosque of Koudougou.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the investigation revealed that the suspect, acting as the older brother of the victim's deceased father, had unilaterally arranged the young girl's marriage on June 21, 2026, at the mosque. This arranged marriage was intended to seal a business partnership with a beverage supplier, where the minor was employed in a cellar after being directed toward sewing training.

The young girl had lost her father at the age of nine in an accident in the Republic of Ivory Coast. Since then, she had been subjected to involuntary relocations, including a move to Mali without her mother's knowledge, before being taken to Burkina Faso. Her mother, Ms. Doua Rolande, learned of the situation from Abidjan, where she was undergoing medical treatment. She strongly opposed the early marriage and sought the support of the Burkinabe authorities to protect her daughter and allow her to continue her vocational training.

Upon questioning by the authorities, the accused guardian reversed his decision and announced he would postpone the marriage. The victim, expressing her desire to move past this difficult episode, stated her intention to focus entirely on her education and future.

Chief Commissioner of Police Mahama Kabor©, head of the Nando Regional Child Protection Brigade, commended the swift collaboration of the individuals who helped prevent this minor's future from being compromised. He emphasized the need for continued vigilance against child marriages and abuses of authority.