President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire recently affirmed the nation’s steadfast progress, noting its consistently vibrant economy. The country maintains one of the highest annual growth rates in the region and globally, a testament to its robust economic foundations. This declaration came during his traditional address to the nation on the evening of August 6th, ahead of Côte d’Ivoire’s 66th independence anniversary celebrations.

However, President Ouattara emphasized that such impressive economic performance holds true significance only if it tangibly improves the daily lives of Ivorian citizens. To this end, he announced the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to essential services. These efforts will focus on potable water, electricity, quality healthcare, education, housing, and more efficient public services. Furthermore, he highlighted a continued dedication to addressing employment challenges, bolstering household purchasing power, and safeguarding the most vulnerable segments of society.

Continuing his address, Alassane Ouattara articulated an ambitious vision for the coming years: to forge a “Grande Côte d’Ivoire.” This grand objective encompasses not only an expansive economy and significant infrastructure but also high-quality development, shared prosperity for its people, and a prominent standing in Africa and worldwide. This aspiration, he explained, underpins the forthcoming National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, which is poised to catalyze a new era of economic, social, and cultural transformation across the nation.

The President also expressed satisfaction with the overwhelming participation observed during the consultative group meeting for PND financing, held on July 8th and 9th. He interpreted this strong engagement as a clear indicator of confidence in Côte d’Ivoire, attributing it to years of collective effort, stability, and the credibility of its institutions. Additionally, he pointed to the Strategic Sovereign Fund for the Development of Côte d’Ivoire (FSD-CI), established in April, as a concrete expression of the nation’s resolve to bolster financial sovereignty and lay the groundwork for future generations’ prosperity. This new financial instrument, he clarified, will play a crucial role in funding structural investments, developing strategic sectors, and supporting the ongoing transformation of the Ivorian economy.

Modernizing institutions for sustainable growth

Recognizing that enduring development necessitates robust, credible institutions capable of adapting to contemporary challenges, Alassane Ouattara underscored Côte d’Ivoire’s journey. Over recent years, the nation has successfully restored peace, solidified stability, and strengthened its institutional framework. This evolution, he added, naturally compels a continued drive towards modernization, ensuring institutions increasingly meet the demands of Ivorian democracy and the expectations of its citizens.

It is within this framework, he noted, that the government has initiated electoral governance reform, following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This reform aims to finalize the normalization of the electoral system, marking a significant stride in the country’s democratic maturity. The President was unequivocal in his statement: “By more clearly delineating responsibilities related to the material organization of elections, vote tabulation, and process observation, we seek to enhance transparency, build greater trust among all stakeholders, and sustainably consolidate our democracy.” He subsequently urged all Ivorians to contribute to this modernization effort, thereby advancing democracy within the nation while upholding institutional respect.

A call to action for youth, women, entrepreneurs, and farmers

Emphasizing that the “Grande Côte d’Ivoire” to which everyone aspires will be the culmination of collective effort, talent, commitment, and national trust, the Head of State called upon every Ivorian to fully seize opportunities and contribute their energy, talent, ideas, and dedication.

Addressing the nation’s youth, he affirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s belief in their talent, creativity, and capacity to forge new paths. “You are the future and the present of our country, and nothing we undertake will be achieved without you,” he declared. For women, he highlighted their courage, commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit as an indispensable force for national development.

While acknowledging entrepreneurs’ need for boldness, innovation, and a willingness to invest to generate wealth and jobs for the country, the President also recognized farmers as the primary architects of Côte d’Ivoire’s food sovereignty and prosperity.

Protecting citizens, upholding dignity: core public priorities

The Ivorian President further announced that safeguarding the population, respecting human dignity, and upholding the rule of law will remain central to public action. Consequently, operations to clear high-risk zones will continue strictly within legal parameters to preserve human lives. He mentioned instructing the government to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, bolster prevention mechanisms, and pursue social housing programs.

Regarding illegal eviction operations, specifically those conducted outside legal frameworks, such as in Koumassi-campement, the Head of State confirmed that thorough investigations are currently underway. He assured the public, “All responsibilities will be established, and they will lead to sanctions as 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 pardoned 2,064 detainees, while the second provided a sentence reduction for 2,597 detainees with less than 36 months remaining on their sentences.

Finally, Alassane Ouattara invited the entire populace to participate enthusiastically in the independence celebration, featuring a grand parade in Yopougon. This commune, located north of Abidjan, he noted, perfectly embodies the youthful energy, diverse populace, and the dynamism and vitality of modern Côte d’Ivoire.