Côte d’Ivoire is poised to embark on a landmark journey in modernizing its national infrastructure. Under the framework of the National Development Program (PND) 2026-2030, the government has unveiled plans for a high-speed rail (TGV) network that will link the southern and northern regions of the country. This flagship initiative forms a crucial part of a broader strategy for economic and territorial transformation, designed to establish Côte d’Ivoire as a pivotal hub in West Africa.
Côte d’Ivoire aspires to join the ranks of nations boasting a modern, high-speed rail network. The forthcoming Ivorian TGV will span a 640-kilometer corridor, connecting the bustling metropolis of Abidjan to Ferkessédougou, with key stops in Yamoussoukro, Bouaké, and Korhogo.
Beyond its impressive technical scope, this infrastructure project is envisioned as a powerful catalyst for national integration. It aims to seamlessly link the country’s primary economic centers while dramatically reducing travel times between regions.
According to Souleymane Diarrassouba, the Minister of Planning and Development, the journey between Abidjan and Yamoussoukro will be reduced to an impressive 45 minutes. This significant advancement is expected to revolutionize daily life and work patterns for citizens, potentially encouraging professionals to reside in the political capital while pursuing their careers in the economic capital.
Metro, airports, roads: a comprehensive national undertaking
The high-speed rail initiative is integral to a broader, holistic vision for modernizing Côte d’Ivoire’s transport infrastructure. The government has also confirmed that the 37-kilometer Abidjan Metro system is slated for commissioning by 2029.
The aviation sector is also receiving significant attention. Plans are underway for two new international airports, one in San-Pedro in the southwest and another in Bondoukou in the east, aiming to bolster both national and regional connectivity.
The PND 2026-2030: a roadmap for structural transformation
Through its latest National Development Program, the Ivorian state intends to accelerate the country’s economic transformation. This strategic plan is anchored on several key priorities: fostering regional economic hubs, driving accelerated industrialization, and enhancing the value of local production.
This approach underscores the authorities’ commitment to reinforcing the state’s central role in planning and guiding national development.
The overarching ambition is to elevate Côte d’Ivoire to the status of an upper-middle-income country by 2030, while simultaneously solidifying achievements in stability and social cohesion.
Over 114 trillion FCFA to be mobilized
To realize this ambitious vision, the government estimates that 114,838.5 billion FCFA in funding will be required over the 2026-2030 period. The financing strategy emphasizes a shared investment model, with 30% contributed by the public sector and 70% by the private sector.
In pursuit of this goal, Abidjan is set to host a high-level consultative group meeting on July 8 and 9, 2026. This gathering aims to engage international financial partners and secure the necessary investments.
Organized with crucial support from the World Bank, the European Union, the African Development Bank, and the United Nations System, this event will serve as a platform to present the nation’s development vision and attract the vital funding for its implementation.
Setting sights on regional economic leadership
Through this ambitious program, Côte d’Ivoire clearly articulates its aspirations: to emerge as one of West Africa’s foremost logistical, industrial, and economic powerhouses.
From the high-speed rail and metro systems to new airport platforms and the modernization of its road network, the country is committed to establishing the essential infrastructure needed to sustain its growth and enhance its appeal on the regional stage.