The Femme Ivoirienne en Politique (FIP) organization inaugurated the nation’s first National Women Builders of the Nation Week on Thursday, July 30, at the Yopougon town hall. The event, scheduled for August 1–4, 2026, aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th Independence Day celebrations.
Themed “66 Years of Independence: Women’s Achievements and Future Prospects in Côte d’Ivoire”, this initiative shines a spotlight on women’s pivotal roles in the country’s political, economic, social, and cultural progress. It also serves as a platform to assess ongoing challenges and chart a path forward.
FIP’s president, Rebecca Yao, emphasized the week’s mission: conducting a comprehensive review of women’s gains since independence, addressing persistent obstacles, and crafting actionable policy recommendations. “We recognized the need to pause and reflect on women’s contributions, identify unresolved issues, and propose solutions,” she stated.
The program, running from August 1–3 at Yopougon’s town hall, features a national symposium with an opening panel and 16 thematic discussions. Topics include women’s leadership, health, education, economic empowerment, youth engagement, and gender rights. An exhibition will showcase trailblazing women’s journeys alongside successful female-led entrepreneurship initiatives.
Concluding the symposium, a white paper will be compiled and submitted to relevant authorities to ensure follow-through on the proposed reforms.
The week’s highlight is the gala dinner on August 4 at the Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire, where 66 pioneering women will be honored for their contributions to Côte d’Ivoire’s development since 1960.
Looking ahead, Rebecca Yao expressed her vision to establish this as an annual event. “Beyond new ideas, we’ll annually revisit resolutions from previous editions to track progress and accountability.”
Yopougon’s deputy, Mireille Bamba, praised the initiative and reaffirmed the support of deputy-mayor Adama Bictogo. Organizers aim to position this week as a recurring forum for dialogue, reflection, and recognition of women’s indispensable role in nation-building.
