Modern facilities to strengthen regional anti-money laundering efforts
Abidjan, August 12, 2026 – This Wednesday, Minister of Economy, Finance and Budget Adama Coulibaly officially inaugurated and handed over the keys to the new headquarters of the Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) in Abidjan’s Deux-Plateaux district.
A milestone for regional financial security
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Coulibaly emphasized the significance of the occasion: « Today’s event symbolizes the government’s commitment to supporting GIABA’s mission by providing a fully equipped and operational facility. These premises will serve as a hub for sharing expertise and best practices in combating money laundering and terrorist financing. »
The Côte d’Ivoire government and GIABA formalized their partnership on March 29, 2014, in Yamoussoukro during the 44th ECOWAS Heads of State and Government summit. This agreement aligned with a 2010 ECOWAS ministerial decision—made in Abuja—to establish two regional information centers: one in Lagos for English-speaking countries and another in Abidjan for French and Portuguese-speaking nations.
Progress in financial crime prevention
Highlighting the country’s achievements, Mr. Coulibaly noted, « With GIABA’s support, Côte d’Ivoire successfully implemented its national action plan against money laundering ahead of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) deadline set for October 2024. » He urged all stakeholders to intensify collaboration to dismantle financial networks fueling organized crime.
Edwin Harris Junior, GIABA Director General, praised Côte d’Ivoire’s leadership: « This facility reflects the trust placed in our organization and the Ivorian government’s dedication to strengthening regional mechanisms against transnational crime. » He expressed gratitude to President Alassane Ouattara and his administration for their steadfast support in bolstering GIABA’s institutional presence.
Transforming financial intelligence in West Africa
General Idrissa Touré, head of Côte d’Ivoire’s Financial Intelligence Unit (CENTIF), described the new center as a « catalyst for knowledge sharing, cooperation, and action. » He added that it would serve as a regional hub for training, research, and documentation, empowering French and Portuguese-speaking states in their fight against financial crime.
The event brought together key figures including representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Justice, Planning and Development, the Liberian Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, and delegates from UNDP and UNICEF.
