Abidjan, 1 June 2026 – The celebration of Mother’s Day in Aboisso took center stage in Ivorian newspapers on Monday, highlighted by the presence of former First Ladies Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo alongside current First Lady Dominique Ouattara.
The 81st birthday of former President Laurent Gbagbo also captured significant media attention, while other publications focused on national political developments, activities of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI-RDA), and economic news.
Uniting figures: former and current First Ladies shine at Aboisso event
Mother’s Day coverage dominated the front pages, with several newspapers emphasizing the symbolic significance of the gathering. Notre Voie celebrated the “reunion of First Ladies in Aboisso: a beautiful example,” while L’Inter highlighted the “strong message of unity” conveyed by Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo standing beside Dominique Ouattara. Le Matin praised the three women for “elevating social cohesion.”
Le Patriote featured First Lady Dominique Ouattara’s address to women, stating: “You are the silent builders of our society,” while also honoring Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo. L’Expression dedicated its front page to the event, proclaiming: “Dominique Ouattara, Henriette Bédié, and Simone Gbagbo celebrate together,” followed by an analysis of how these “bearers of humanity” were honored.
Laurent Gbagbo’s milestone birthday garners media spotlight
Former President Laurent Gbagbo’s 81st birthday received extensive 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 in its title: “81 years, 40 years in politics – Laurent Gbagbo, alas.” Meanwhile, Notre Voie hailed him as “Laurent Gbagbo: the extraordinary survivor of Ivorian politics,” commemorating his birthday on 31 May 2026.
Broader Ivorian news landscape
Beyond these headline events, Le Nouveau Réveil covered the 80th anniversary celebrations of the PDCI-RDA, noting “massive mobilization in the eastern region for Thiam.” On the economic front, L’Expression led with: “The Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO): the official ‘supplier’ of Prime Ministers.”
L’Essor turned its focus to political tensions, questioning in its headline: “Why TBO, Anne Oulotto, and Dimba are causing controversy.”