GANZOURGOU: An awareness and screening campaign for breast and cervical cancer was conducted in the village of Mankarga Traditionnel, in the commune of Boudry, by the Zorgho health district as part of the Pink October initiative. The campaign, held on October 23, 2024, saw significant participation from women and young girls, thanks to the support of the Société des Mines de Sanbrado (SOMISA).
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Mankarga Traditionnel Health and Social Promotion Center (CSPS) witnessed a large turnout as hundreds of women and girls gathered to receive information and screenings for breast and cervical cancer. Health professionals from the Zorgho Medical Center with Surgical Antenna (CMA) educated participants about the symptoms and early detection methods for these cancers. Kantagba Mouni, a health attaché in obstetrical-gynecological care, emphasized the necessity of screening for cervical cancer due to its often silent nature, while urging women to regularly check for abnormalities
in their breasts.
Dr. Delphin Kaboré, the chief medical officer of the Zorgho health district, highlighted the preventive potential of vaccinating 9-year-old girls against cervical cancer. He lauded the efforts of community leaders and urged men to support women in these health initiatives. The screening targets set for the event were exceeded, with more than 200 screenings conducted.
SOMISA played an instrumental role by providing both financial and logistical support for the campaign. Assane Ouédraogo, the company’s director of community relations, underscored the importance of the partnership in advancing community health. Aïcha Natalie Nébié, SOMISA’s Director of Occupational Health and Safety, reiterated the critical need for early cancer detection and awareness among women.
The campaign was further supported by local community leaders, including Natalie Kaboré, president of the Mankarga Traditionnel women’s group, who acknowledged the campaign’s success in educating women about cancer symptoms and th
e availability of free screening and treatment. The event aimed to demystify cancer and encourage preventive health behaviors in a region where women’s health remains a significant concern.