Côte d’Ivoire secures record international investments for development plan

The Côte d’Ivoire has surpassed all expectations by securing international funding commitments four times higher than anticipated for its National Development Plan (NDP) through 2030. This unprecedented financial backing underscores the country’s economic resilience and renewed stability, drawing strong investor confidence.

During a high-profile investment forum held in Abidjan this week, government officials and both public and private investors convened to finalize commitments for the NDP. The plan outlines critical priorities including enhanced security measures, agricultural modernization—accounting for 20% of GDP—support for the emergence of national champions, and major infrastructure projects such as a high-speed rail network.

Record-breaking funding commitments

The Ivorian government initially sought approximately $20 billion in public financing. However, development partners have pledged over $80 billion, exceeding expectations by a significant margin. Key contributors include the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the European Union.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Planning Souleymane Diarrassouba highlighted the overwhelming investor confidence, noting that more than 70% of the total NDP funding—over $147 billion—is expected from the private sector. The overall NDP budget now stands at $209 billion, with substantial contributions from the Ivorian state.

This financial milestone follows a successful $1.3 billion sovereign bond issuance in February, executed at exceptionally favorable terms for an emerging market. Earlier, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had also approved a disbursement of nearly $833 million under various assistance programs, commending the country’s resilient economy while forecasting a slight growth slowdown to 6% in 2026 from 6.5% in 2025, alongside a projected inflation rate of 3.3% for this year.

Once heavily reliant on agriculture, the Ivorian economy has been diversifying in recent years, capitalizing on recent discoveries in mining, natural gas, and oil sectors. The record funding commitments signal a new chapter of robust growth and sustainable development for the country.