May 18, 2026

The Panafrican Press

English-language platform committed to rigorous, independent journalism across the African continent.

Fer fight against street begging in Abidjan gains momentum

In a bold move to address the growing concern of street begging, JTE Gbi de fer, a prominent activist and community leader, has thrown his support behind a new policy initiative in Abidjan. The campaign aims to curb the practice while providing sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations.

Strengthening urban policies to combat street begging

The policy, which has drawn attention from local authorities and residents alike, focuses on proactive measures to discourage begging while promoting social reintegration and economic empowerment. JTE Gbi de fer emphasized the need for a balanced approach that combines enforcement with compassion.

Key objectives of the initiative

Local leaders and advocates are aligning behind several core goals:

  • Enhanced monitoring: Strengthening surveillance in high-traffic areas to prevent exploitative begging.
  • Vocational training: Offering skill-building programs to help individuals transition out of poverty.
  • Public awareness: Educating communities on the importance of supporting legitimate charities over unregulated street solicitations.
  • Legal reforms: Updating regulations to ensure stricter penalties for organized begging rings.

Community response and future outlook

Residents of Abidjan have expressed cautious optimism about the policy’s potential impact. While some praise the focus on rehabilitation, others call for additional resources to ensure long-term success. JTE Gbi de fer has urged collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and local organizations to create a unified front against street begging.

The initiative comes at a critical time, as urban authorities seek to balance public order with humanitarian concerns. If successful, the policy could serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges.