In a nationwide address marking the eve of the country’s 66th Independence Day, President Alassane Ouattara underscored that Côte d’Ivoire has maintained its strong economic trajectory, boasting one of the highest annual growth rates in Africa and globally. He emphasized that this momentum reflects the resilience of the nation’s economic foundations.
The Head of State acknowledged that such progress holds meaning only if it translates into tangible improvements for citizens. To that end, he outlined ongoing government initiatives to expand access to essential services, including clean drinking water, reliable electricity, healthcare, quality education, affordable housing, and efficient public utilities. Strengthening employment opportunities, boosting household purchasing power, and safeguarding vulnerable populations remain central priorities.
Vision for a thriving Côte d’Ivoire: infrastructure, prosperity, and global standing
The President articulated a bold vision for the future: building a Great Côte d’Ivoire defined not only by economic scale and robust infrastructure but also by inclusive development, shared prosperity, and a respected place on the continental and world stage. This vision, he explained, is the driving force behind the National Development Plan (NDP) 2026–2030, which aims to accelerate the country’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.
He pointed to the strong turnout at the recent High-Level Consultative Group meeting for the NDP, held on July 8–9, as a powerful signal of global confidence in Côte d’Ivoire. This trust, he noted, stems from years of stability, institutional credibility, and collective effort. Additionally, the launch of the Strategic Sovereign Wealth Fund for Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI) in April reflects a commitment to financial sovereignty and long-term prosperity. The President described the Fund as a key instrument to finance critical infrastructure, support strategic sectors, and drive economic modernization.
Institutional modernization: a pillar of sustainable growth
President Ouattara stressed that sustainable development requires strong, credible institutions equipped to meet modern challenges. He highlighted the country’s return to peace, stability, and institutional strengthening over recent years, adding that this progress necessitates continued modernization to align with democratic demands and citizen expectations.
In this context, he pointed to the ongoing electoral governance reform following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). The reform aims to clarify roles in election logistics, vote tallying, and observation—steps designed to enhance transparency, build stakeholder trust, and consolidate democracy. He urged all citizens to support this modernization drive and contribute to advancing democratic governance within the rule of law.
Empowering youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers
The President framed the vision of a Great Côte d’Ivoire as a collective achievement—one built on hard work, creativity, commitment, and national confidence. He called on every Ivorian to seize opportunities and contribute their energy, ideas, and dedication to the nation’s progress.
To the youth, he expressed unwavering faith in their talent and innovation as drivers of new pathways to prosperity. “You are both the present and the future of our country,” he declared, “and nothing great will be accomplished without your active involvement.” He celebrated women’s courage, initiative, and leadership as vital forces in development.
For entrepreneurs, he urged boldness, innovation, and investment to generate wealth and jobs. Farmers, he affirmed, remain the backbone of food sovereignty and national prosperity.
Rule of law and human dignity at the heart of governance
The President reaffirmed that protecting communities, upholding human dignity, and enforcing the law are cornerstones of public policy. He announced continued efforts to secure at-risk zones within the bounds of legality to save lives, alongside accelerated investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, strengthened prevention systems, and expanded social housing programs.
Addressing recent unauthorized evictions, such as those in Koumassi-campement, he confirmed that thorough investigations are underway. He made clear: “All responsible parties will be identified and face legal consequences. In this Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one may act in the name of the State outside the law without accountability.”
Acting under constitutional authority, the President signed two decrees granting clemency to 4,661 individuals serving minor offenses. Of these, 2,064 prisoners received outright pardons, while 2,597 received sentence reductions, with remaining terms under 36 months.
As celebrations approach, President Ouattara invited all Ivorians to take part in the national parade in Yopougon, a northern district of Abidjan renowned for its youthful energy, cultural diversity, and dynamic spirit—embodiments of modern Côte d’Ivoire.
