On the eve of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th independence anniversary, President Alassane Ouattara addressed the nation, affirming the country’s sustained development trajectory. He highlighted a dynamic economy, boasting one of the highest annual growth rates in the region and globally, which he attributed to robust underlying fundamentals.
Emphasizing that economic performance is only meaningful if it tangibly improves citizens’ lives, President Ouattara announced continued government efforts. These initiatives aim to enhance access to potable water, electricity, quality healthcare, education, housing, and more efficient public services. Furthermore, he committed to prioritizing employment, household purchasing power, and protecting the most vulnerable segments of the population.
Looking ahead, Alassane Ouattara articulated an ambitious vision to construct a “Great Côte d’Ivoire.” This grand objective encompasses a vast economy, significant infrastructure, high-quality development, shared prosperity for all its people, and a prominent position in Africa and worldwide. He explained that this ambition forms the bedrock of the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which will provide fresh momentum for the nation’s economic, social, and cultural transformation.
President Ouattara expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout at the consultative group for PND financing, held on July 8 and 9. He interpreted this as a powerful signal of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire, a direct result of years of sustained stability, institutional credibility, and collective national endeavors. He also mentioned the establishment of the Strategic Sovereign Fund for Côte d’Ivoire Development (FSD-CI) in April, underscoring the nation’s commitment to bolstering financial sovereignty and securing prosperity for future generations. This new instrument, he clarified, will play a crucial role in funding structural investments, developing key strategic sectors, and supporting the ongoing transformation of the Ivorian economy.
Poursuing institutional modernization
Acknowledging that sustainable development relies on robust, credible institutions capable of addressing contemporary challenges, Alassane Ouattara noted Côte d’Ivoire’s journey. Over several years, the nation has regained peace, solidified its stability, and reinforced its institutional framework. This progress, he asserted, naturally compels a continued drive towards modernization, ensuring institutions increasingly meet the demands of democracy and the expectations of citizens.
In this spirit, he explained, the government initiated a reform of electoral governance following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform, aimed at finalizing the normalization of the electoral system, marks a new phase in Côte d’Ivoire’s democratic maturity. President Ouattara articulated a clear objective: by distinctly separating responsibilities for the material organization of elections, vote tabulation, and process observation, the government intends to enhance transparency, build greater trust among all stakeholders, and durably strengthen the nation’s democracy. He urged the entire populace to contribute to this modernization effort, thereby advancing democracy within the country while respecting its institutions.
An appeal to youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers
The Head of State conveyed that the “Great Côte d’Ivoire” to which everyone aspires will be forged through the collective work, talent, commitment, and trust of the entire population. He called upon every Ivorian man and woman to fully embrace the opportunities presented and to contribute their energy, talent, ideas, and dedication.
Addressing the youth, he affirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s belief in their talent, creativity, and capacity to forge new paths. “You represent the future and the present of our nation, and nothing we undertake will succeed without you,” he declared. Turning to women, he underscored their courage, commitment, and spirit of initiative, identifying these as vital forces for national development.
For entrepreneurs, President Ouattara highlighted the need for boldness, innovation, and a readiness to invest, creating more wealth and employment for the country. Regarding farmers, he recognized them as the primary architects of Côte d’Ivoire’s food sovereignty and overall prosperity.
Protecting populations, upholding human dignity, at the heart of public action
President Ouattara reiterated that protecting the populace, upholding human dignity, and enforcing the law will consistently remain central to public action. He confirmed that operations to clear high-risk zones would proceed with strict adherence to the rule of law, aiming to preserve human lives. He also stated that he had instructed the government to expedite investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, bolster prevention mechanisms, and continue social housing programs.
Regarding eviction operations conducted outside legal frameworks, particularly in Koumassi-campement, the Head of State confirmed that thorough investigations were currently underway. He assured the public, “All responsibilities will be established, leading to the sanctions prescribed by law. In the Côte d’Ivoire we are building, no one can act on behalf of the State outside its authority without facing the consequences.”
Exercising his constitutional prerogatives, the President signed two justice decrees, granting clemency to 4,661 common law detainees convicted of minor offenses. Specifically, the first decree granted a pardon to 2,064 prisoners, while the second provided a sentence reduction for 2,597 detainees with less than 36 months remaining on their terms.
Finally, Alassane Ouattara extended an invitation to the entire population to participate massively in the independence celebration, featuring a grand parade in Yopougon. He described this commune, located north of Abidjan, as embodying the vibrant energy of youth, the rich diversity of the people, and the dynamism and vitality of modern Côte d’Ivoire.
