In Burkina Faso, the Le Cercle Rose initiative was launched to provide breast cancer screening to 100 vulnerable women. The initiative, led by Djamila Bonkoungou, director-general of Zind Naaba Appart Hôtel, aims to facilitate access to breast cancer screening for women who cannot afford it. The initiative is part of the Octobre Rose campaign, which seeks to raise awareness about breast cancer. On October 24, 2026, Le Cercle Rose gathered health professionals, associations, foundations, and donors in Ouagadougou to discuss the importance of early detection and to mobilize resources.
The Le Cercle Rose initiative seeks to provide a screening pathway, including ultrasound and mammography exams, to 100 vulnerable women. The initiative also aims to provide medical accompaniment to women who require it. During the gathering, participants showed their commitment through contributions and promises of donations. According to the organizers, the mobilization exceeded expectations, but the final amount of funds collected is not yet known. Some promises of donations are still being consolidated.
Breast cancer is a significant public health challenge in Burkina Faso. Many women face difficulties in accessing specialized exams due to financial constraints, lack of awareness of warning signs, or limited access to healthcare services. Le Cercle Rose aims to address these obstacles by bringing screening services closer to women who need them most. Professor Charlemagne discussed the importance of early detection, risk factors, prevention, and treatment options.
The role of medical imaging in detecting breast abnormalities was also discussed. The Clinique Princesse Sarah, represented by radiologists Dr. Karim Ilboudo and Dr. Michelle Domlan, provided insights into the use of ultrasound and mammography in detecting breast anomalies. These exams can help identify abnormalities that require further investigation or monitoring.
The psychological aspect of breast cancer diagnosis was also addressed. Dr. Sarah Bilah, a psychologist, emphasized the importance of emotional support and listening to women throughout their journey. This approach reflects the initiative's commitment to considering the human and social realities faced by beneficiaries.
To implement the project, the organizers have defined a chain of intervention involving several structures. The association La Chaîne de la Lumière, led by Raïssa Compaoré, will be responsible for preselecting and mobilizing the 100 beneficiary women. Zind Naaba Appart Hôtel will ensure the organization of the screening phase, with technical support from Clinique Princesse Sarah.
The Fondation burkinabè contre le cancer (FOBUCAN) will provide support to women who require further examination or treatment. The foundation will serve as a relay for their orientation, follow-up, and accompaniment to adapted healthcare structures. The overall coordination of the device will be ensured by Zind Naaba, which will liaise between beneficiaries, healthcare professionals, associations, and donors.
Key points
- Le Cercle Rose initiative aims to provide breast cancer screening to 100 vulnerable women in Burkina Faso.
- The initiative seeks to address obstacles to breast cancer diagnosis, including financial constraints and limited access to healthcare services.
- The project involves a chain of intervention with several structures, including La Chaîne de la Lumière, Clinique Princesse Sarah, and FOBUCAN.
