Dominique Ouattara, Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo unite at mother’s day celebration in Aboisso

Abidjan, 1 June 2026 — The celebration of Mother’s Day in Aboisso took centre stage on Monday, with former First Ladies Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo joining the current First Lady Dominique Ouattara in a display of unity.

Historic gathering of First Ladies in Aboisso

Local media highlighted the significance of the event, with headlines echoing the theme of cohesion and solidarity. Notre Voie framed the occasion as the “reunion of First Ladies in Aboisso: a fine example,” while L’Inter described it as “Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo alongside Dominique Ouattara: a strong message of unity in Aboisso.” Meanwhile, Le Matin emphasised how “Madame Ouattara, Bédié, and Gbagbo elevate social cohesion.”

Messages of appreciation and tribute

Le Patriote captured Dominique Ouattara’s address to women, hailing them as “the silent builders of our society,” while also paying tribute to the presence of Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo. L’Expression similarly featured the gathering on its front page, with the headline “Dominique Ouattara, Henriette Bédié, and Simone Gbagbo celebrate,” followed by an exploration of how “the pillars of humanity were honoured.”

Laurent Gbagbo’s 81st birthday draws media attention

The milestone birthday of former President Laurent Gbagbo also commanded significant coverage. Le Temps marked the occasion with the headline “President Laurent Gbagbo blows out 81 candles,” while L’Avenir reflected on his four-decade political journey under the title “81 years, 40 years in politics—Laurent Gbagbo, alas.” Notre Voie paid homage to him as “the extraordinary survivor of Ivorian politics,” noting that he “blew out his 81 candles on 31 May 2026.”

Political and economic headlines round out the news

The broader political landscape also featured prominently. Le Nouveau Réveil covered the 80th anniversary of the PDCI-RDA, spotlighting the “strong mobilisation in the Eastern region for Thiam.” On the economic front, L’Expression led with a bold assertion: “The BCEAO named the official supplier of Prime Ministers.” Meanwhile, L’Essor scrutinised public dissatisfaction, questioning “Why TBO, Anne Oulotto, and Dimba are causing controversy.”