Côte d’Ivoire’s robust growth celebrated by president ouattara

The President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, highlighted the nation’s sustained economic momentum during his annual address to the nation on the eve of the 66th Independence Day celebrations. He emphasized that the country has maintained its development trajectory, boasting one of the highest annual growth rates in the region and globally, a testament to the resilience of its economic foundations.

Ouattara underscored that such growth must translate into tangible improvements for citizens, noting that the government will intensify efforts to enhance access to clean water, electricity, healthcare, quality education, housing, and efficient public services. He also reaffirmed a commitment to prioritizing job creation, household purchasing power, and safeguarding vulnerable populations.

The President outlined his vision for a Greater Côte d’Ivoire, defined not only by economic expansion and infrastructure but also by inclusive prosperity and the nation’s stature in Africa and beyond. This vision, he stated, underpins the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which aims to drive economic, social, and cultural transformation.

Ouattara also highlighted the strong turnout at the recent PND financing consultative group meeting, signaling robust confidence in the country. This confidence stems from the nation’s stability, institutional credibility, and collective efforts over the years. He pointed to the Strategic Sovereign Fund for Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI), established in April, as a key instrument to bolster financial sovereignty and secure future prosperity by funding critical investments and strategic sectors.

Modernising institutions for sustainable progress

The President stressed that sustainable development hinges on strong, credible, and adaptable institutions. He noted Côte d’Ivoire’s restored peace, consolidated stability, and strengthened governance over recent years. This progress, he said, necessitates further institutional modernization to meet democratic demands and citizen expectations.

In this regard, the government has initiated reforms to the electoral governance framework following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). These reforms aim to finalize the normalization of the electoral system, marking a new milestone in the country’s democratic maturity. By clearly delineating responsibilities for election logistics, vote tallying, and oversight, the reforms seek to enhance transparency, deepen trust among stakeholders, and solidify democracy. Ouattara urged all citizens to contribute to this modernization effort and advance the nation’s democratic progress within the framework of its institutions.

Empowering youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers

Ouattara framed the vision of a Greater Côte d’Ivoire as a collective endeavor, driven by the labor, talent, and commitment of its people. He called on every Ivorian to seize opportunities and contribute their energy, ideas, and dedication to the nation’s growth.

Addressing the youth, he expressed confidence in their creativity and potential to pioneer new pathways. “You are both the present and the future of our country, and no progress will be made without your involvement,” he declared. He praised women for their courage, commitment, and initiative, identifying them as a vital force in the nation’s development.

The President urged entrepreneurs to embrace boldness, innovation, and investment to generate wealth and employment. For farmers, he emphasized their pivotal role in ensuring food sovereignty and national prosperity.

Upholding human dignity and public accountability

Ouattara reaffirmed that protecting citizens, upholding human dignity, and enforcing the rule of law remain central to public policy. Security operations in high-risk zones will continue within a strict legal framework to preserve lives. He directed the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, strengthen prevention systems, and expand social housing programs.

Regarding illegal evictions, such as those in Koumassi-campement, he announced that thorough investigations are underway. “All responsible parties will be held accountable, and legal consequences will follow,” he stated. “In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no individual or entity can act in the name of the state outside its framework without facing repercussions.”

Exercising his constitutional authority, the President signed two decrees granting clemency to 4,661 detainees convicted of minor offenses. The first decree pardoned 2,064 inmates, while the second reduced sentences for 2,597 others, with remaining terms of less than 36 months.

Ouattara concluded by inviting all Ivorians to participate in the Independence Day celebrations through a grand parade in Yopougon, a commune north of Abidjan that embodies the youthful energy, diversity, and dynamism of modern Côte d’Ivoire.