President Alassane Ouattara affirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s sustained development trajectory, underscoring its dynamic economy. The nation continues to achieve one of the highest annual growth rates in the region and globally, a testament to its robust economic fundamentals. This declaration was made during his traditional address to the Nation on the evening of August 6th, marking the eve of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th Independence Day celebration.
However, President Ouattara emphasized that this impressive performance only holds true significance if it translates into concrete improvements in the lives of Ivorian citizens. Consequently, he announced the government’s unwavering commitment to enhance access to essential services. This includes bolstering provision of potable water, electricity, quality healthcare, education, housing, and continually improving public services. Furthermore, he highlighted a continued focus on employment opportunities, strengthening household purchasing power, and safeguarding the most vulnerable segments of the population.
Continuing his address, Alassane Ouattara outlined an ambitious vision for the coming years: to forge a ‘Greater Côte d’Ivoire’. This grand aspiration encompasses not only the expansion of its economy and the scale of its infrastructure but also the quality of its development, the shared prosperity of its people, and its influential standing within Africa and across the world. This very ambition, he stated, serves as the guiding principle for the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, set to invigorate the economic, social, and cultural transformation of the nation.
President Ouattara also expressed satisfaction with the substantial mobilization witnessed during the consultative group meeting for PND financing, held on July 8th and 9th. He interpreted this strong engagement as a powerful indicator of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire, a direct result of the stability, institutional credibility, and collective efforts achieved over several years. Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of the Strategic Sovereign Fund for the Development of Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI) in April, signaling a clear intent to reinforce financial sovereignty and proactively secure prosperity for future generations. This new instrument, he clarified, will be instrumental in funding structuring investments, fostering strategic sector development, and supporting the nation’s ongoing economic transformation.
Continued modernization of institutions
Recognizing that sustainable development is intrinsically linked to strong, credible institutions capable of addressing contemporary challenges, Alassane Ouattara noted in his message that Côte d’Ivoire has successfully restored peace, consolidated stability, and strengthened its institutions over recent years. This positive evolution, he added, naturally compels the nation to continue modernizing its institutional framework, ensuring it increasingly meets the demands of its democracy and the expectations of its citizens.
It is in this spirit, he explained, that the government has initiated electoral governance reform, following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform, aimed at completing the normalization of the electoral system, represents a significant step forward in Côte d’Ivoire’s democratic maturity. The President clearly articulated: “By more distinctly separating responsibilities related to the material organization of elections, the tabulation of votes, and the observation of the process, we aim to enhance transparency, boost trust among all stakeholders, and durably solidify our democracy.” He then called upon the entire populace to contribute to this modernization effort and, in doing so, advance democracy within the country while respecting its institutions.
An appeal to youth, women, entrepreneurs, farmers
Implying that the ‘Greater Côte d’Ivoire’ to which everyone aspires will be the product of the hard work, talent, commitment, and trust of the entire population, the Head of State urged every Ivorian man and woman to fully embrace opportunities and contribute their energy, talent, ideas, and dedication.
Addressing the youth, he affirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s belief in their talent, creativity, and capacity to forge new paths. “You represent the future and the present of our country, and nothing we undertake will be accomplished without you,” he declared. For women, he underscored their courage, commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit as vital forces for national development.
While acknowledging entrepreneurs’ need for boldness, innovative capacity, and a willingness to invest to generate greater wealth and employment for the nation, the President also recognized farmers as the primary architects of the country’s food sovereignty and prosperity.
Protection of populations, respect for human dignity at the heart of public action
The Ivorian President also announced that the protection of its citizens, respect for human dignity, and the enforcement of the law will consistently remain central to public action. Consequently, operations to clear high-risk zones will continue with strict adherence to the rule of law, prioritizing the preservation of human lives. He mentioned having instructed the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, reinforce prevention mechanisms, and pursue social housing programs.
Regarding eviction operations conducted outside legal frameworks, particularly in Koumassi-campement, the Head of State confirmed that thorough investigations are currently underway. He assured, “All responsibilities will be established, leading to sanctions prescribed by law. In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one can act on behalf of the State outside its authority without facing the consequences.”
In accordance with his constitutional prerogatives, the President signed two decrees pertaining to Justice, granting freedom to 4,661 common law detainees convicted of minor offenses. Specifically, the first decree pardons 2,064 detainees, while the second grants a sentence reduction to 2,597 detainees with a remaining term of less than 36 months.
Alassane Ouattara concluded by inviting the entire population to participate massively in the upcoming celebration, featuring a grand parade in Yopougon. This commune, located north of Abidjan, he noted, embodies the energy of youth, the diversity of the people, and the dynamism and vitality of modern Côte d’Ivoire.