Abidjan, August 12, 2026 – Adama Coulibaly, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Economy, Finance and Budget, formally inaugurated the new headquarters of the Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) in Abidjan today. The ceremony marked the official handover of keys to a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance regional efforts against financial crime.

The minister emphasized that the move underscores Côte d’Ivoire’s unwavering commitment to supporting GIABA’s mission in combating money laundering and terrorist financing. « This modern, fully equipped headquarters will serve as a dynamic hub for knowledge sharing, expertise exchange, and coordinated action to dismantle illicit financial networks, » he stated.

Strategic partnership for regional security

Côte d’Ivoire and GIABA formalized their cooperation in 2014 when the government signed a headquarters agreement in Yamoussoukro, aligning with a 2010 ECOWAS ministerial decision to establish two regional centers—one in Lagos for Anglophone nations and one in Abidjan for Francophone and Lusophone countries. This initiative reflects the bloc’s broader strategy to strengthen financial governance across West Africa.

Progress and future priorities

During the event, Coulibaly highlighted Côte d’Ivoire’s progress in implementing a national action plan to combat financial crime ahead of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) deadline. « The completion of this plan ahead of schedule demonstrates our dedication to creating an inhospitable environment for financial criminals, » he noted. He urged all stakeholders—government agencies, financial institutions, and civil society—to intensify collaboration to cut off illicit funding sources effectively.

Edwin Harris Junior, GIABA’s Director General, praised Côte d’Ivoire’s leadership, stating, « The inauguration of this facility is a testament to the confidence placed in our organization and the Ivorian government’s resolve to bolster regional mechanisms against transnational crime. » He extended his gratitude to President Alassane Ouattara and the entire administration for their steadfast support in expanding GIABA’s institutional footprint in the country.

General Idrissa Touré, head of Côte d’Ivoire’s Financial Intelligence Unit (CENTIF), described the new center as a « game-changer » for Francophone and Lusophone nations. « This hub will drive innovation in financial crime research, training, and cross-border cooperation, positioning us as a regional leader in the fight against illicit finance, » he remarked.

The ceremony brought together key figures, including representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Justice, and Planning, Liberia’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, and delegates from UNDP and UNICEF.