Yamoussoukro’s real estate surge: investors thrive as farmers fear land loss

In Yamoussoukro, land values are skyrocketing and construction sites are sprouting up everywhere. The Ivorian political capital is rapidly emerging as one of the country’s new hotspots for real estate investment. This frenzied rush toward land is reshaping surrounding villages and raising pressing questions about the future of agricultural land.

Investors bet big on Yamoussoukro’s growth

Francis Djaha, a local real estate agent, uses his drone to showcase parcels he markets to potential buyers. From the sky, the view of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace—one of Côte d’Ivoire’s most iconic landmarks—is breathtaking. Dozens of lots are already marked out, with prices ranging from 15 to 40 million FCFA depending on location and size. Since launching his business five years ago, Djaha has witnessed a surge in demand for Yamoussoukro real estate: “We’re seeing individuals interested in building residential homes, industrial investors seeking land for offices, and even those looking for agricultural plots or move-in-ready houses.”

The influx of investors stems from the city’s abundant available land, but that’s not all. “The roads are exceptionally wide, making travel between areas effortless. The city is peaceful, and the infrastructure built by former President Houphouët-Boigny sets it apart from other urban centers. Plus, its central location means you can reach anywhere in the country easily,” Djaha explains.

Farmland vanishing under concrete

This growing appeal is drawing buyers from Abidjan, other regions of Côte d’Ivoire, and the diaspora. Attracted by affordable prices and the city’s development potential, some are snapping up land for future projects. One entrepreneur, who requested anonymity, recently acquired a plot with plans to develop a residential community.

Yet this land rush is transforming the villages surrounding Yamoussoukro. Once dedicated to cocoa, yam, and cassava farming, these areas are increasingly giving way to housing developments. While this shift fuels hopes for economic growth, it also fuels concerns about the long-term loss of arable land. In Séman Sanhourikro, just a few kilometers from the capital, Michel N’Goran, advisor to the village chief, watches these changes with apprehension. “With these housing projects, we can no longer farm the land. In 30 or 50 years, what happened to the Ebrié people in Abidjan will happen to the Akouès and Nanafouès communities here—we’ll have no farmland left,” he warns.

A five-year national development plan aims to connect Abidjan to Yamoussoukro in just 45 minutes via a high-speed rail line. This ambitious project could further boost Yamoussoukro’s appeal, making it an even more attractive destination for investors and residents alike.