President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire recently affirmed the nation’s steadfast journey towards development, highlighting a consistently dynamic economy. He noted that the country boasts one of the highest annual growth rates in both the region and globally, a testament to its robust economic foundations. These remarks were delivered during his customary address to the nation on the evening of August 6, preceding the celebration of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th independence anniversary.
However, President Ouattara emphasized that such economic success is only meaningful if it translates into tangible improvements in the daily lives of citizens. To this end, he announced the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to essential services, including potable water, electricity, quality healthcare, education, housing, and more efficient public amenities. He also underscored the continued focus on job creation, bolstering household purchasing power, and safeguarding the most vulnerable segments of society.
Looking ahead, President Ouattara articulated an ambitious vision for the coming years: to forge a ‘Greater Côte d’Ivoire.’ This aspiration encompasses not only a vast economy and significant infrastructure but also high-quality development, shared prosperity for all its people, and a prominent position within Africa and on the global stage. This overarching ambition, he stated, serves as the guiding force behind the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which is set to ignite a new wave of economic, social, and cultural transformation across the nation.
Furthermore, the President expressed satisfaction with the overwhelming engagement observed during the consultative group meeting for the PND’s financing, held on July 8 and 9. He viewed this strong mobilization as a clear indicator of international confidence in Côte d’Ivoire, a direct result of years of sustained stability, institutional credibility, and collective national efforts. President Ouattara also highlighted the establishment of the Strategic Sovereign Fund for the Development of Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI) last April. This fund, he explained, demonstrates the nation’s resolve to bolster financial sovereignty and proactively secure prosperity for future generations. He clarified that this new instrument will play a crucial role in funding structuring investments, fostering strategic sector growth, and supporting the ongoing transformation of the Ivorian economy.
Continued modernization of institutions
Recognizing that sustainable development hinges on strong, credible institutions capable of addressing contemporary challenges, President Ouattara noted that Côte d’Ivoire has successfully restored peace, solidified stability, and reinforced its institutional framework over recent years. He added that this progress naturally compels the nation to pursue further institutional modernization, ensuring they increasingly align with democratic principles and citizen expectations.
In this spirit, he explained, the government initiated electoral governance reform following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform, designed to finalize the normalization of the electoral system, marks a significant step in the country’s democratic maturity. The President conveyed his unequivocal stance, declaring that by more clearly delineating responsibilities related to the material organization of elections, vote tabulation, and process observation, the aim is to enhance transparency, build trust among all stakeholders, and durably consolidate democracy. He then urged all citizens to contribute to this modernization effort, thereby advancing democracy within the country while respecting its institutions.
An appeal to youth, women, entrepreneurs, farmers
Implying that the ‘Greater Côte d’Ivoire’ to which everyone aspires will be the culmination of the hard work, talent, commitment, and trust of an entire populace, the Head of State called upon every Ivorian to fully embrace available opportunities and contribute their energy, talent, ideas, and dedication.
Addressing the youth, he affirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s belief in their talent, creativity, and capacity to forge new paths. “You are the future and the present of our country, and nothing we undertake will be achieved without you,” he declared. For women, he commended their courage, commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit, which he considers an essential driving force for development.
While acknowledging entrepreneurs’ need for boldness, innovation, and a willingness to invest to generate greater wealth and employment for the nation, the President also recognized farmers as the primary architects of the country’s food sovereignty and prosperity.
Protecting citizens, upholding human dignity at the core of public action
The Ivorian President further announced that safeguarding citizens, upholding human dignity, and enforcing the rule of law will always remain central to public action. Consequently, operations to clear high-risk zones will continue with strict adherence to legal frameworks, prioritizing the preservation of human lives. He mentioned instructing the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, fortify prevention mechanisms, and advance social housing programs.
Regarding eviction operations conducted outside legal parameters, particularly in Koumassi-campement, the Head of State confirmed that thorough investigations are currently underway. He assured that “All responsibilities will be established, leading to sanctions as prescribed by law. In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one can act on behalf of the State outside its legal framework without facing the consequences.”
Exercising the prerogatives granted by the constitution, the President signed two justice decrees, granting freedom to 4,661 common law detainees convicted of minor offenses. Specifically, the first decree pardoned 2,064 detainees, while the second granted a sentence reduction to 2,597 detainees with a remaining sentence of less than 36 months.
Finally, Alassane Ouattara encouraged the entire population to participate enthusiastically in the upcoming independence celebration, featuring a grand parade in Yopougon, a commune north of Abidjan. This area, he noted, embodies the vibrant energy of youth, the diversity of the people, and the dynamism and vitality of modern Côte d’Ivoire.
