Côte d’Ivoire stands on the cusp of a historic leap in infrastructure modernization. Under the expansive National Development Program (PND) 2026-2030, the government is poised to construct a groundbreaking high-speed train (TGV) network, linking the nation’s southern and northern regions. This flagship initiative forms a crucial part of a broader economic and territorial transformation strategy, designed to solidify the country’s position as an indispensable hub in West Africa.
Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing entry into the exclusive group of nations boasting a very high-speed railway network. The proposed Ivorian TGV will span a 640-kilometer corridor, linking the bustling economic capital, Abidjan, to Ferkessédougou in the north, with key stops including Yamoussoukro, Bouaké, and Korhogo.
Beyond its impressive technical scope, this infrastructure project is envisioned as a powerful catalyst for territorial integration. It promises to seamlessly connect the nation’s primary economic centers, drastically cutting down travel times and fostering greater cohesion across diverse regions.
According to Souleymane Diarrassouba, the Minister of Planning and Development, the journey between Abidjan and Yamoussoukro will be dramatically reduced to a mere 45 minutes. This significant advancement is expected to reshape the daily lives and professional routines of citizens, notably by facilitating the ability for individuals to reside in the political capital while pursuing their careers in the economic capital.
Metro, airports, roads: a nationwide infrastructure overhaul
The TGV initiative is integral to a comprehensive vision for modernizing Côte d’Ivoire’s transport infrastructure. The government has also confirmed plans for the 37-kilometer Abidjan Metro to commence operations by 2029.
The aviation sector is also undergoing significant expansion. Two new international airports are slated for construction: one in San-Pedro, situated in the southwest, and another in Bondoukou, in the eastern part of the country. These additions aim to bolster both national and regional connectivity.
The PND 2026-2030: a blueprint for structural transformation
Through its latest National Development Program, the Ivorian state is committed to accelerating the nation’s economic transformation. This strategic plan is founded on several key priorities: fostering the development of regional economic hubs, driving rapid industrialization, and enhancing the value of local production.
This approach underscores the authorities’ determination to strengthen the state’s central role in guiding and planning national development.
The overarching ambition is to elevate Côte d’Ivoire to upper-middle-income country status by 2030, while simultaneously reinforcing its achievements in stability and social cohesion.
Over 114,000 billion FCFA to be mobilized
To realize this ambitious vision, the government estimates a total financing requirement of 114,838.5 billion FCFA for the 2026-2030 period. The funding strategy is based on a shared investment model, with 30% contributed by the public sector and 70% by the private sector.
In pursuit of these financial goals, 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.
Organized with crucial support from the World Bank, the European Union, the African Development Bank, and the United Nations System, the meeting will serve as a platform to present the nation’s development vision and attract the necessary investments for its successful implementation.
Setting sights on regional economic leadership
With this bold program, Côte d’Ivoire unequivocally declares its aspirations: to emerge as a leading logistics, industrial, and economic hub in West Africa.
From the high-speed rail and metro to new airport facilities and a modernized road network, the country is dedicated to equipping itself with the essential infrastructure to fuel its growth and enhance its appeal on the regional stage.
