Modern facility unveiled in Abidjan to bolster anti-money laundering efforts
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — A new era in the fight against financial crime in West Africa has begun with the official inauguration of the GIABA headquarters in Abidjan’s Deux-Plateaux district. On August 12, 2026, Minister of Economy, Finance and Budget Adama Coulibaly presided over the ceremony, symbolizing the government’s commitment to strengthening regional security frameworks.
During the event, Coulibaly emphasized the significance of the state-of-the-art facility, stating: « Today marks the handover of a fully equipped and operational headquarters, providing a critical platform for collaboration and expertise-sharing in combating money laundering and terrorist financing. » The minister underscored the Ivorian government’s resolve to support GIABA’s mission by offering a space dedicated to knowledge exchange and strategic action.
Historical context and regional commitment
The decision to establish the Abidjan headquarters dates back to a 2010 ECOWAS ministerial resolution, later formalized in a 2014 agreement signed in Yamoussoukro. This initiative aligns with the broader ECOWAS strategy to create two specialized centers: one in Lagos for English-speaking countries and another in Abidjan for French and Portuguese-speaking nations. The new facility consolidates Côte d’Ivoire’s role as a key player in regional security.
Adama Coulibaly also highlighted the country’s progress in meeting international standards, noting that Côte d’Ivoire successfully implemented its national action plan ahead of the FATF deadline. He called for greater stakeholder engagement to disrupt criminal networks and cut off their financial lifelines.
Regional leaders praise the initiative
Edwin Harris Junior, Director General of GIABA, expressed gratitude to Ivorian authorities, particularly President Alassane Ouattara, for their unwavering support. « This facility reflects the confidence placed in our organization and the Ivorian government’s dedication to enhancing regional mechanisms against transnational crime, » he stated.
Idrissa Touré, President of the National Financial Intelligence Unit (CENTIF), described the new center as a catalyst for knowledge-sharing, cooperation, and action. He noted its potential to serve as a regional hub for training, research, and documentation, benefiting French and Portuguese-speaking states.
Ceremony draws high-level participation
The inauguration brought together key figures, including representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Justice, Planning and Development, as well as ambassadors and officials from the Liberia embassy in Côte d’Ivoire. Delegates from the UNDP and UNICEF were also in attendance, underscoring the multi-stakeholder nature of the initiative.
The new GIABA headquarters stands as a testament to collective efforts in safeguarding West Africa’s financial integrity.
