Kourittenga: In a concerted effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) and digital violence, the Kourittenga Provincial Directorate for Humanitarian Action, alongside humanitarian, human rights, and security actors, organized a panel discussion in Koupela. This initiative, held on December 3, 2025, was supported financially by the Belgian Development Agency (Enabel).
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event was chaired by Moctar Ilboudo, the High Commissioner of Kourittenga. It aimed to create a proactive environment for the prevention and fight against various forms of violence, with a significant focus on digital violence affecting women and girls. The panel was themed "All united to end digital violence against all women and girls," emphasizing the collective and coordinated efforts needed to protect the primary victims.
The High Commissioner underscored the critical nature of addressing the growing issue of digital violence. He called for a sustainable, collaborative response to safeguard women and girls from such abuses. The panel featured four key presentations, each shedding light on different aspects of the issue.
Hamed Ouangre of the provincial directorate of Humanitarian Action discussed gender-based violence, while Lucie Tankoano from Koupela Start-up International focused on digital violence against women. The role of Judicial Police Officers in combating digital violence and the legal framework for its repression were also highlighted, with insights from a representative of the Koupela court. These discussions helped participants identify common forms of online violence and understand the associated psychological and social impacts.
Rakieta Oubda/Balima, interim director of the provincial humanitarian action of Kourittenga, emphasized the panel's primary goal of enhancing community awareness about digital violence risks. She advocated for collective prevention efforts and the protection of victims, stressing the importance of involving young people, parents, and community leaders in prevention strategies.
Napam Boumb Naaba, representing His Majesty Naaba Yemde, expressed his satisfaction with the training. He noted the valuable insights gained on reporting methods and protective behaviors in the digital realm, highlighting the initiative's role in reducing ignorance and empowering individuals against digital threats.
The event concluded with a strong appeal for mobilizing institutional, community, and individual actors to eradicate online violence.