Côte d’Ivoire’s economic growth and development vision highlighted by president

The President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, emphasized during his annual address to the nation that the country has maintained its development trajectory, with its economy remaining robust and boasting one of the highest annual growth rates in both the region and the world. This milestone underscores the resilience of the nation’s economic fundamentals, he noted in his speech delivered on the eve of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th independence anniversary.

However, the President stressed that such economic achievements hold true value only when they translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of citizens. To this end, he pledged that the government will intensify efforts to enhance access to clean drinking water, reliable electricity, healthcare, quality education, affordable housing, and efficient public services. He also reiterated the commitment to prioritize job creation, household purchasing power, and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Looking ahead, Ouattara outlined a bold vision for the future: building a Greater Côte d’Ivoire defined not only by a thriving economy and robust infrastructure but also by inclusive prosperity, shared development, and global recognition. This vision, he explained, is the driving force behind the National Development Plan (PND) for 2026–2030, which aims to accelerate the country’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.

The President also celebrated the strong response to the National Development Plan’s financing consultation held in early July, calling it a powerful testament to international confidence in Côte d’Ivoire. This trust, he said, stems from the country’s political stability, institutional credibility, and collective efforts over the years. He highlighted the newly established Strategic Sovereign Fund for Côte d’Ivoire’s Development (FSD-CI), launched in April, as a key instrument to bolster financial sovereignty and secure long-term prosperity for future generations. This fund will drive investments in critical infrastructure, strategic sectors, and economic transformation, he affirmed.

Strengthening institutions for sustainable progress

Ouattara underscored that sustainable development is unattainable without strong, credible institutions tailored to modern challenges. He pointed out that Côte d’Ivoire has enjoyed years of peace, stability, and institutional strengthening, and now calls for further modernization to meet democratic expectations and citizen needs.

In this context, he announced the ongoing reform of electoral governance, following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform aims to refine the electoral system, ensuring greater transparency and trust among stakeholders. The President clarified that by clearly distinguishing roles in election logistics, vote counting, and oversight, the government seeks to enhance credibility and consolidate democracy. He urged all citizens to contribute to this modernization effort and uphold the integrity of national institutions.

An inclusive call to action for all Ivorians

The President framed the vision of a Greater Côte d’Ivoire as a collective endeavor, driven by the hard work, creativity, and commitment of every citizen. He called on all Ivorians—youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers—to seize opportunities and contribute their energy, ideas, and skills to the nation’s progress.

Addressing the youth, he praised their ingenuity and potential, stating, “You are both the future and the present of our country; nothing we build will succeed without you.” To women, he highlighted their courage, initiative, and pivotal role in driving development. For entrepreneurs, he emphasized the need for boldness, innovation, and investment to generate wealth and jobs. And to farmers, he acknowledged their essential contribution to food sovereignty and national prosperity.

Safeguarding dignity and upholding the rule of law

Ouattara reaffirmed that protecting citizens and respecting human dignity remain central to public policy. He announced the continuation of operations to secure high-risk areas, always within the bounds of the law, to safeguard lives. He also instructed the government to accelerate investments in drainage systems, sanitation, prevention measures, and social housing programs.

Regarding illegal evictions, such as those reported in Koumassi-campement, the President confirmed that thorough investigations are underway. He assured that all responsible parties will be held accountable and face legal consequences. “No individual or group can claim to act on behalf of the state outside its legal framework without consequences,” he declared.

In a gesture of clemency, Ouattara signed two decrees granting freedom to 4,661 inmates convicted of minor offenses. Of these, 2,064 received full pardons, while 2,597 received sentence reductions, with remaining terms under 36 months.

To conclude, the President invited all Ivorians to join in the independence celebrations with pride, particularly during the grand parade in Yopougon—a district north of Abidjan renowned for embodying the nation’s youthful energy, diversity, and dynamism.