President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire recently affirmed the nation’s steadfast progress, noting its consistently dynamic economy. He highlighted that Côte d’Ivoire boasts one of the highest annual growth rates in both the region and globally, a testament to its strong economic fundamentals. These remarks were made during his traditional address to the Nation on the evening of August 6th, preceding the celebration of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th Independence Day.
However, President Ouattara emphasized that such economic performance is only meaningful if it tangibly improves the lives of Ivorian citizens. To this end, he announced the government’s continued commitment to enhancing access to essential services, including potable water, electricity, quality healthcare, education, housing, and more efficient public services. He also underscored an ongoing focus on job creation, boosting household purchasing power, and safeguarding the most vulnerable segments of society.
Looking ahead, Alassane Ouattara articulated an ambitious vision for the coming years: to forge a ‘Greater Côte d’Ivoire’. This grand aspiration encompasses not only a vast economy and extensive infrastructure but also high-quality development, shared prosperity for its people, and a prominent standing in Africa and worldwide. He stated that this ambition serves as the driving 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.
The President expressed satisfaction with the strong engagement observed during the consultative group meeting for PND financing, held on July 8th and 9th. He viewed this robust turnout as a powerful indicator of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire, attributing it to years of 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, which reflects a clear resolve to bolster financial sovereignty and proactively secure prosperity for future generations. This new instrument, he elaborated, will play a crucial role in funding structural investments, developing strategic sectors, and supporting the nation’s economic transformation.
Continuing institutional modernization
Recognizing that sustainable development hinges on robust, credible institutions capable of addressing contemporary challenges, Alassane Ouattara reiterated that Côte d’Ivoire has achieved peace, solidified its stability, and strengthened its institutions over recent years. He added that this evolution naturally calls for ongoing modernization of these institutions, ensuring they increasingly align with democratic imperatives and citizen expectations.
In this spirit, he noted, 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, represents a significant step forward in the country’s democratic maturity. The President clearly articulated the objective: “By more distinctly separating responsibilities related to the material organization of elections, vote tabulation, and process observation, we aim to enhance transparency, increase confidence among all stakeholders, and durably consolidate our democracy.” He then urged all citizens to contribute to this modernization effort, thereby advancing democracy within the nation while upholding institutional respect.
An appeal to youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers
President Ouattara conveyed that the ‘Greater Côte d’Ivoire’ to which everyone aspires will be the product of hard work, talent, commitment, and the collective trust of its people. He called upon every Ivorian to fully embrace opportunities and contribute their energy, skills, 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, identifying these qualities as vital forces for development.
To entrepreneurs, the President emphasized the need for boldness, innovation, and a willingness to invest to generate greater wealth and employment for the nation. Regarding farmers, he recognized them as the primary architects of the country’s food sovereignty and prosperity.
Protecting citizens and upholding human dignity at the core of public action
The Ivorian President also announced that the protection of citizens, respect for human dignity, and the enforcement of law will remain central to public policy. Consequently, operations to clear high-risk zones will continue strictly within the bounds of the rule of law to safeguard human lives. He mentioned having instructed the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, bolster prevention mechanisms, and advance 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, “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 the State’s authority without facing consequences.”
Exercising 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 pardoned 2,064 detainees, while the second granted a sentence reduction to 2,597 detainees with less than 36 months remaining on their sentences.
Finally, Alassane Ouattara invited the entire population to participate enthusiastically in the upcoming independence celebration, featuring a grand parade in Yopougon, a commune in northern Abidjan. He described Yopougon as an embodiment of youth energy, national diversity, and the dynamism and vitality of modern Côte d’Ivoire.
