Côte d’Ivoire’s president ouattara outlines robust economic future and citizen-focused development

President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire recently affirmed the nation’s unwavering development trajectory, highlighting its dynamic economy which boasts one of the highest annual growth rates in both the region and globally. This strong performance, he noted, underscores the fundamental strength of the Ivorian economy. The President delivered these remarks during his traditional address to the nation on the evening of August 6th, ahead of the 66th anniversary of Côte d’Ivoire’s independence.

Crucially, President Ouattara emphasized that such economic achievements are only meaningful if they tangibly improve the lives of citizens. To this end, he announced the government’s continued commitment to enhancing access to essential services, including potable water, electricity, quality healthcare, education, and housing, alongside improving overall public services. Special attention, he added, would remain focused on job creation, boosting household purchasing power, and safeguarding the most vulnerable segments of the population.

Looking ahead, Alassane Ouattara articulated an ambitious vision to forge a “Great Côte d’Ivoire.” This aspiration encompasses not only a vast economy and extensive infrastructure but also high-quality development, shared prosperity for its people, and a prominent role for the nation within Africa and the wider world. He stated that this grand ambition serves as the inspiration for the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which is poised to drive a renewed impetus for the country’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.

The President expressed satisfaction with the significant mobilization witnessed during the consultative group meeting for PND financing, held on July 8th and 9th. He interpreted this strong engagement as a clear signal of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire, a direct result of years of sustained stability, institutional credibility, and collective efforts. Furthermore, he highlighted the establishment of the Strategic Sovereign Fund for the Development of Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI) in April, demonstrating a commitment to reinforcing financial sovereignty and proactively securing prosperity for future generations. This new instrument, he specified, will be instrumental in funding structuring investments, fostering strategic sectors, and supporting the ongoing transformation of the Ivorian economy.

Continuing institutional modernization

Acknowledging that sustainable development necessitates robust, credible institutions capable of addressing contemporary challenges, President Ouattara reiterated in his address that Côte d’Ivoire has successfully restored peace, solidified its stability, and strengthened its institutional framework over recent years. This positive evolution, he added, naturally compels the nation to pursue further modernization of these institutions, ensuring they continually meet the evolving demands of democracy and the expectations of its citizens.

In this spirit, the government has initiated reforms in electoral governance, following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform, designed to complete the normalization of the electoral system, represents a significant step forward in the nation’s democratic maturity. The President conveyed a clear message: “By more distinctly separating responsibilities related to the material organization of elections, vote tabulation, and process observation, we aim to bolster transparency, increase trust among all stakeholders, and sustainably consolidate our democracy.” He then invited all Ivorians to contribute to this modernization endeavor, thereby advancing democracy within the country while upholding institutional integrity.

An appeal to youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers

Emphasizing that the “Great Côte d’Ivoire” to which all aspire will be the product of collective effort, talent, commitment, and trust, the Head of State urged every Ivorian man and woman to fully embrace opportunities and contribute their energy, skills, ideas, and dedication.

Addressing the youth, President Ouattara affirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s belief in their talent, creativity, and capacity to forge new pathways. “You are the future and the present of our country, and nothing we undertake will be achieved without you,” he declared. For women, he underscored their courage, commitment, and spirit of initiative, identifying these qualities as an essential force for national development.

The President called upon entrepreneurs to demonstrate audacity, innovation, and a willingness to invest, thereby creating more wealth and employment for the nation. He also recognized farmers as the primary architects of the country’s food sovereignty and prosperity.

Protecting citizens, upholding human dignity, and enforcing the law at the core of public action

The Ivorian President further announced that the protection of populations, the respect for human dignity, and the strict application of the law will remain central to public action. Consequently, operations to clear high-risk zones will continue with rigorous adherence to the rule of law, prioritizing the preservation of human lives. He mentioned instructing the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, reinforce prevention mechanisms, and pursue social housing programs.

Regarding eviction operations conducted outside legal frameworks, particularly in Koumassi-campement, the Head of State confirmed that thorough investigations are currently underway. He assured the public, stating, “All responsibilities will be established, and they will lead to the sanctions prescribed by law. In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one can act on behalf of the State outside its legal authority without facing the consequences.”

In accordance with his constitutional prerogatives, the President signed two decrees pertaining to justice, granting freedom to 4,661 common law detainees convicted of minor offenses. Specifically, the first decree granted grace to 2,064 detainees, while the second provided a sentence reduction to 2,597 detainees with less than 36 months remaining on their sentences.

Finally, Alassane Ouattara extended an invitation to the entire population to participate massively in the upcoming Independence Day celebration, featuring a grand parade in Yopougon. This commune, located north of Abidjan, he remarked, embodies the energetic spirit of youth, the nation’s rich diversity, and the dynamism and vitality of modern Côte d’Ivoire, a key West Africa nation.