As Ivory Coast celebrates 66 years of independence, a leading political figure has called on young citizens to prioritize hard work, professional development, discipline, and rigor as the nation charts its future course.
Honoring the past while shaping tomorrow
The 7th of August marks a pivotal moment in Ivorian history—the day in 1960 when the nation, under the visionary leadership of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, broke free from colonial rule. Six decades later, the call to national pride echoes louder than ever. The Movement of Future Forces, through its spokesperson Yaya Fofana, has extended a heartfelt tribute to the Ivorian people and its diaspora communities worldwide.
A tribute to the nation’s builders
Independence is not merely a historical milestone; it represents a living promise renewed daily through collective effort, loyalty to the nation, and unity among all Ivorians. The MFA pays homage to the founding leaders—President Félix Houphouët-Boigny and President Henri Konan Bédié—alongside countless unsung heroes who have shaped the nation’s identity.
Aligning with this year’s theme, “Defense and Security Forces Serving Peace, Unity, and Development,” the movement salutes the Armed Forces, Gendarmerie, Police, Customs, Forestry Services, and all agencies safeguarding the Republic. Special recognition goes to soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight against terrorism in the northern regions, as well as the professionalism demonstrated during the October 2025 electoral process.
Yopougon as a symbol of national reconciliation
The decision to host national celebrations in Yopougon sends a powerful message: Ivory Coast has no political divides. From Yopougon to Daloa, Korhogo to San-Pédro, and Bondoukou to Odienné, the heartbeat of the nation remains the same—united in purpose and pride.
From political freedom to economic sovereignty
While 1960 brought political independence, the challenge of our time is achieving full economic sovereignty. This means strengthening local industries, particularly in cocoa and cashew processing, with ambitious targets: 50% local cocoa transformation and 40% for cashews by 2030. The MFA advocates for a robust national industrial strategy to ensure Ivory Coast controls its economic narrative.
In the 21st century, sovereignty also means digital and media independence. The goal is clear—ensuring that Ivory Coast’s stories, history, and debates are shaped within its own borders, not dictated from abroad.
Growth must be felt in everyday life
Macroeconomic progress is commendable, but true success is measured in the daily lives of citizens. The MFA calls for tangible improvements in housing, education, healthcare, and purchasing power. Concrete proposals include:
- Building 200,000 affordable homes by 2030
- Creating at least 500,000 formal jobs for youth under 35 in the next five years
- Protecting the informal sector, which sustains eight out of ten Ivorians
- Establishing a dedicated Ministry for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Building a legacy for future generations
Institutional continuity is essential. The MFA supports the President’s commitment to generational transition, emphasizing practical steps such as opening leadership roles to younger cadres trained since 2011, promoting gender equality in governance, and preparing a structured succession plan. A reformed Electoral Commission—structured on the three-thirds principle with equal representation from administration, political parties, and civil society—would further strengthen democratic stability.
Houphouëtism: A unifying legacy
The true spirit of Houphouëtism is one of unity, not division. It listens, forgives, and builds. Every region—from the North to the South, East to West, and Central—is a vital thread in the fabric of Ivory Coast. The nation’s rich cultural mosaic, including Malinkés, Dioulas, Sénoufos, Baoulés, Bétés, Agnis, Attiés, Guérés, Peulhs, and Krobous, forms a single, indivisible identity.
MFA’s role in shaping the future of the RHDP
The Movement of Future Forces stands as a founding member of the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP). Its loyalty is rooted in the values of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, carried forward by President Henri Konan Bédié, and today, aligned with President Alassane Ouattara. This loyalty is active, reform-minded, and constructive—not passive or unquestioning.
The MFA has contributed significantly to the RHDP’s construction through unwavering commitment and political discipline. It now seeks full reinstatement within the party’s leadership structures, not for personal gain, but as a matter of principle, coherence, and justice. The movement remains ready to serve the RHDP and, above all, Ivory Coast.
A call to action for the youth and diaspora
To the youth—who form the majority of the population—the MFA delivers a clear message: You are not spectators of national progress; you are its heirs and architects. Choose work, training, discipline, and rigor. Choose Ivory Coast.
To the diaspora, the nation’s extended family across the globe, the movement advocates for bold integration policies, including cross-border banking solutions, tax incentives for productive investment, equitable access to public tenders, and appropriate political representation.
Ivory Coast stands at the heart of a rising West Africa. The MFA urges a renewed ECOWAS capable of restoring dialogue with neighboring Sahelian nations—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—and positioning Ivory Coast as a mediator in regional peacebuilding. Regional integration is not a diplomatic luxury; it is essential for economic and security resilience.
A prayer for the nation
Ivorian women and men, the independence we celebrate is a covenant. It binds us to the memory of our ancestors, the dreams of our children, and the hopes of generations yet unborn. To our fallen soldiers, their families, the wounded, and veterans—your sacrifice will never be forgotten. To the women of Ivory Coast, pillars of strength and silent heroes—your courage guides us forward.
The MFA’s mission is simple: to give back to Ivory Coast what it has given us—a strong Republic, a living fraternity, and a shared future. This is our national pledge.
May God bless Ivory Coast. May God bless its Defense and Security Forces. May God bless its sons and daughters, at home and abroad.
Happy Independence Day to all Ivorians.
Written in Abidjan, August 4, 2026
Yaya Fofana
Ivorian citizen
