Côte d’Ivoire’s robust economy highlighted by president ouattara

In his annual address to the nation ahead of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th Independence Day, President Alassane Ouattara underscored the country’s unwavering economic momentum. He emphasized that despite global challenges, the nation has maintained its development trajectory, boasting one of the highest annual growth rates in Africa and worldwide. This resilience, he noted, reflects the strength of the nation’s economic fundamentals.

Yet, he made it clear that such growth carries meaning only when it translates into tangible improvements for every citizen. To that end, the government is intensifying efforts to expand access to essential services, including clean drinking water, reliable electricity, healthcare, quality education, housing, and efficient public utilities. Priority will also be given to boosting employment, strengthening household purchasing power, and safeguarding the most vulnerable populations.

Looking ahead, President Ouattara outlined a bold vision: building a “Greater Côte d’Ivoire” defined not only by economic expansion and robust infrastructure but also by inclusive prosperity, high-quality development, and a rising global profile. This vision, he explained, is the driving force behind the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which aims to accelerate the country’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.

He also celebrated the strong turnout at the recent PND financing consultation group meeting held on July 8 and 9, calling it a powerful vote of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s future. This trust, he said, stems from years of stability, institutional credibility, and collective effort. The launch of the Strategic Sovereign Fund for Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI) in April further reinforces this momentum, positioning the nation to finance key investments, nurture strategic sectors, and lay the groundwork for future generations.

Strengthening institutions for sustainable progress

President Ouattara stressed that lasting development hinges on strong, credible, and adaptive institutions. He pointed to Côte d’Ivoire’s restored peace, consolidated stability, and fortified governance as proof of progress. “This evolution naturally calls for continued modernization,” he stated, “so our institutions can better meet the demands of democracy and the expectations of our people.”

In line with this, the government has embarked on electoral governance reforms following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This initiative aims to finalize the normalization of the electoral system and mark another milestone in the country’s democratic maturity. The President was unequivocal: by clearly separating responsibilities for election logistics, vote tabulation, and oversight, the reforms seek to enhance transparency, deepen stakeholder trust, and solidify democracy nationwide. He urged all citizens to contribute to this modernization and uphold the nation’s democratic institutions.

Mobilizing every citizen toward a shared future

The President framed the vision of a “Greater Côte d’Ivoire” as a collective endeavor, built on the energy, talent, and dedication of its people. He called on every Ivorian—regardless of age, gender, or profession—to seize opportunities, contribute ideas, and invest in the nation’s future.

To the youth, he expressed unwavering faith in their creativity, resilience, and potential to pioneer new paths. “You are both the present and the future of our nation,” he declared. “Nothing we build will succeed without your involvement.” For women, he highlighted their courage, initiative, and indispensable role in driving development forward. Entrepreneurs were encouraged to embrace bold innovation and investment to create wealth and jobs, while farmers were praised as the cornerstone of food sovereignty and national prosperity.

Upholding dignity, justice, and public safety

President Ouattara reaffirmed that protecting citizens, upholding human dignity, and enforcing the law remain central to government action. Security operations in high-risk zones will continue under strict legal frameworks to safeguard lives. He also directed the acceleration of investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, the strengthening of prevention systems, and the expansion of social housing programs.

Addressing recent unauthorized evictions in areas like Koumassi-campement, he announced thorough investigations are underway. “All responsible parties will be held accountable,” he stated. “In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one can act in the name of the state without consequences.”

In a gesture of clemency, the President signed two decrees granting freedom to 4,661 common-law detainees convicted of minor offenses. Of these, 2,064 received full pardons, while 2,597 received sentence reductions for offenses carrying less than 36 months remaining.

Concluding his address, he urged all Ivorians to join in celebrating Independence Day with pride through a grand parade in Yopougon—a district north of Abidjan—celebrated for embodying the youthful energy, diversity, and dynamism of modern Côte d’Ivoire.