The President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, emphasized during his annual address to the nation that the country has maintained its development trajectory, boasting one of the highest annual growth rates in the region and globally. This performance, he noted, underscores the robustness of the nation’s economic fundamentals.
Yet, he stressed that economic growth holds true value only when it translates into tangible improvements in the daily lives of citizens. To this end, he outlined the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to essential services, including clean water, reliable electricity, quality healthcare, education, housing, and efficient public services. He also reaffirmed the administration’s priority to bolster employment opportunities, strengthen household purchasing power, and safeguard the most vulnerable populations.
Vision for a thriving Côte d’Ivoire
Looking ahead, President Ouattara articulated a bold vision: building a Great Côte d’Ivoire defined not only by a robust economy and world-class infrastructure but also by inclusive prosperity, shared development, and the nation’s growing influence on the African and global stage. This vision, he explained, is the driving force behind the National Development Plan (PND) for 2026-2030, which is set to accelerate the country’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.
He highlighted the significant momentum generated by the recent High-Level Consultative Group for PND financing, held on July 8 and 9, as a powerful endorsement of Côte d’Ivoire’s stability, institutional credibility, and collective progress over the years. The President also pointed to the newly established Strategic Sovereign Fund for Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI), launched in April, as a testament to the nation’s commitment to financial sovereignty and long-term prosperity. This fund, he stated, will play a pivotal role in financing critical infrastructure projects, supporting strategic sectors, and catalyzing economic transformation.
Strengthening institutions for sustainable progress
President Ouattara underscored that sustainable development hinges on strong, credible, and adaptive institutions. He noted that Côte d’Ivoire has made significant strides in restoring peace, consolidating stability, and reinforcing its institutions. Building on this progress, he emphasized the need for continued modernization to meet the evolving demands of democracy and citizen expectations.
In this context, he highlighted the ongoing electoral governance reform, initiated following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform aims to finalize the normalization of the electoral system, marking another milestone in the country’s democratic maturity. The President clarified that by clearly delineating responsibilities—separating logistical election organization, vote tallying, and oversight—the reforms seek to enhance transparency, foster trust among all stakeholders, and solidify democratic foundations. He called on all Ivorians to contribute to this modernization effort and champion democratic progress within the framework of the nation’s institutions.
A call to action for youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers
The President framed the vision of a Great Côte d’Ivoire as a collective endeavor, driven by the dedication, innovation, and confidence of its people. He urged every Ivorian—man and woman—to seize the opportunities before them, contributing their energy, ideas, and commitment to the nation’s growth.
Addressing the youth, he expressed unwavering faith in their creativity and potential to forge new paths. “You are both the future and the present of our nation,” he declared, “and nothing we build can succeed without your active participation.”
Turning to women, he praised their courage, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit as pillars of national development. For entrepreneurs, he called for boldness, innovation, and investment to create wealth and jobs. And to farmers, he acknowledged their indispensable role in ensuring food sovereignty and economic prosperity.
Upholding human dignity and the rule of law
President Ouattara reiterated that the protection of citizens, the defense of human dignity, and strict adherence to the law remain at the heart of public policy. He announced the continuation of security operations in high-risk areas, conducted with full respect for the rule of law to preserve lives. He also directed the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, bolster preventive measures, and advance social housing programs.
Regarding illegal evictions, particularly in Koumassi-campement, he confirmed that thorough investigations are underway. “Accountability will be enforced,” he stated, “and those acting outside the law will face consequences.” He emphasized that in the Côte d’Ivoire of tomorrow, no individual or group can claim to represent the state without being held accountable.
Exercising his constitutional authority, the President signed two decrees granting clemency to 4,661 inmates convicted of minor offenses. The first decree pardoned 2,064 detainees, while the second reduced sentences for 2,597 others, with remaining terms of less than 36 months.
In closing, he invited all Ivorians to join in the Independence Day celebrations with enthusiasm, highlighting a grand parade in Yopougon—a district north of Abidjan that embodies the youthful energy, diversity, and dynamism of modern Côte d’Ivoire.
