Côte d’Ivoire maintains strong economic growth trajectory
In a national address marking the eve of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th Independence Day, President Alassane Ouattara highlighted the nation’s sustained economic momentum, noting that the country boasts one of the highest annual growth rates in West Africa and globally. This robust performance, he emphasized, stems from solid macroeconomic fundamentals that have withstood regional and global challenges.
The Head of State underscored that economic growth must translate into tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives. To this end, he announced continued government initiatives to expand access to critical services, including clean water, reliable electricity, healthcare, quality education, housing, and high-performance public services. Special emphasis will remain on employment generation, household purchasing power, and protecting vulnerable populations.
Vision 2030: building a prosperous, inclusive Ivorian society
President Ouattara articulated a bold vision for the coming years: constructing a Great Côte d’Ivoire characterized not only by economic expansion and world-class infrastructure but also by equitable prosperity, social cohesion, and elevated international standing. This vision, he explained, underpins the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which aims to accelerate the country’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.
The President also celebrated the strong turnout at the recent PND Financing Consultative Group meeting (July 8-9), calling it a powerful vote of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s future. This confidence, he noted, reflects the nation’s stability, institutional credibility, and collective efforts over recent years. He highlighted the launch of the Strategic Sovereign Fund (FSD-CI) in April as a key milestone, designed to bolster financial sovereignty and secure long-term prosperity for future generations. “This instrument will fuel high-impact investments, drive strategic sector growth, and accelerate our economic transformation,” he stated.
Institutional modernization for lasting stability
Sustainable development, the President argued, hinges on strong, credible institutions adapted to modern challenges. Côte d’Ivoire has made significant strides in restoring peace, reinforcing stability, and strengthening governance. “This progress naturally calls for the continued modernization of our institutions to meet the demands of democracy and citizen expectations,” he said.
He pointed to the ongoing electoral governance reform—a response to the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI)—as a critical step in solidifying the country’s democratic maturity. By clearly separating responsibilities for election logistics, vote tabulation, and observation, the reform aims to enhance transparency, build trust among stakeholders, and reinforce democratic resilience. “In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one may act in the name of the State outside the State without facing consequences,” he declared, urging all citizens to contribute to this modernization effort.
A call to action for Ivorian youth, women, and entrepreneurs
The President framed the vision of a Great Côte d’Ivoire as a collective endeavor, requiring the energy, innovation, and commitment of every citizen. To the nation’s youth, he offered a message of unwavering support: “Côte d’Ivoire believes in your talent, creativity, and ability to forge new paths. You are both our present and our future—no undertaking will succeed without your full participation.”
He praised women for their courage, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit, calling them an essential force in the country’s development. Entrepreneurs were encouraged to embrace boldness, innovation, and investment to generate wealth and jobs, while farmers were recognized as the backbone of food sovereignty and national prosperity.
Protecting citizens and upholding human dignity
President Ouattara reaffirmed that the protection of people and respect for human dignity remain central to public policy. Risk-prone areas will continue to be cleared in full compliance with the rule of law to safeguard lives. He announced accelerated investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, expanded prevention systems, and the continuation of social housing programs.
Addressing recent unauthorized evictions—particularly in Koumassi-campement—he confirmed that thorough investigations are underway. “All responsibilities will be identified, and legal consequences will follow. In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one can act on behalf of the State outside the State without accountability,” he warned.
In a gesture of national reconciliation, he signed two decrees granting clemency to 4,661 inmates convicted of minor offenses. Of these, 2,064 received full pardons, while 2,597 benefited from sentence reductions, with remaining terms under 36 months.
The President concluded by urging all Ivorians to join in the Independence Day celebrations through a grand parade in Yopougon, a northern district of Abidjan that embodies the nation’s youthful energy, cultural diversity, and modern dynamism.
