The fourth annual Mousso d’Or awards ceremony, held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Ouagadougou, shone a spotlight on remarkable Burkinabè women. This prestigious event acknowledged their profound commitment, inspiring leadership, and significant accomplishments that actively drive the nation’s progress. Dedicated to championing female excellence, the evening recognized numerous women and organizations across diverse professional fields. 

As the night concluded, the coveted Mousso d’Or 2026 trophy was presented to Salmata Sawadogo, the esteemed President and CEO of Salmata Commerce Général.

This distinguished recognition celebrates her impressive entrepreneurial journey and her unwavering dedication to fostering the economic empowerment of women throughout Burkina Faso.

The laureate expressed profound gratitude to the organizers and all who have supported her path. She views this award not just as an honor, but as a powerful encouragement to persist in her endeavors and to motivate more women to embrace their potential and pursue entrepreneurial ventures.

In other notable categories, Talato Ouédraogo was honored with the coveted « Pépite d’or» award, while the association Wend Guetta received recognition in the « Association » category. Charlotte Milliogo, representing the USFA, excelled in the « Sport » category, Mam Sank was celebrated in « Restauration », and Almaty Meria took home the prize for « Artiste musicienne ».

Each distinguished laureate departed with a beautifully crafted trophy, an honorary sash, and a certificate of recognition. An additional special trophy of honor was bestowed upon Adja Abibou Sana Ouédraogo, acknowledging her remarkable career and steadfast dedication.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of several special accolades. These included honors for the Forces de défense et de sécurité (FDS) and the Volontaires pour la défense de la patrie (VDP), recognizing their vital contributions to upholding peace and social cohesion within the nation.

According to Mohamado Sanfo, the event’s Commissioner General, the core mission of the Mousso d’Or is to spotlight women who consistently achieve excellence in their respective fields. He eloquently stated, « When a woman is happy, an entire family is happy », underscoring the ripple effect of female well-being.

He further elaborated that the Mousso d’Or initiative extends its reach through various social actions designed to support vulnerable women. This year, for instance, forty widows of FDS members who tragically fell in the line of duty received comprehensive training and ongoing support aimed at enhancing their self-sufficiency.

Despite encountering various challenges throughout its previous editions, Mohamado Sanfo expressed immense satisfaction with the event’s remarkable growth and the burgeoning enthusiasm it continues to generate.

« We faced obstacles, but our passion propels us forward. This year witnessed an exceptional mobilization, clearly demonstrating the widespread interest in championing women’s advancement », he affirmed.

In total, this fourth edition proudly presented awards across sixteen distinct categories, along with seven special prizes and one prestigious trophy of honor. Talato Ouédraogo, the recipient of the « Pépite d’or » category, lauded the initiative, recognizing its power to inspire women to strive for unparalleled excellence.

« We wholeheartedly encourage all women aspiring to embark on new ventures to do so without hesitation. Today, female excellence is not only acknowledged but actively fostered », she declared emphatically.

Through this successful fourth edition, the Mousso d’Or awards powerfully reaffirm their commitment to celebrating the extraordinary women who, through their unwavering effort, resilience, and dedication, contribute daily to the flourishing development of Burkina Faso.