Abidjan, the bustling capital of Côte d’Ivoire, is experiencing a significant transformation due to rapid infrastructure development. This metamorphosis, driven by strong political will and supported by projects from the French Agency for Development (AFD) and the African Development Bank, is boosting the city’s economic and social standing. The growth of private enterprise, along with advancements in education and healthcare, are key factors contributing to Abidjan’s status as one of the wealthiest cities in the sub-region. Côte d’Ivoire’s economic growth is closely tied to its road infrastructure development. Public works, featuring a road network of 82,000 km, are continuously upgraded, reflecting the country’s commitment to improving accessibility.

Abidjan : Côte d’Ivoire’s economic capital

Abidjan, home to over 20 % of the Ivorian population, is not only the economic hub but also the driving force behind the country’s economic development. The city generates around 80 % of national economic activity, thanks to its strategic location in West Africa and its port, the largest in the region, which boosts international trade.

Several dynamic sectors contribute to Abidjan’s thriving economy. Manufacturing, construction, and retail are major growth drivers, while the extractive industries also play a significant role; Côte d’Ivoire is the world’s leading producer of cashew nuts. The Ivorian government’s commitment to economic development has further stimulated the private sector, with initiatives to support economic transformation and encourage technological innovation.

The role of the French Agency for Development

The French Agency for Development (AFD) plays a major role in transforming Abidjan’s infrastructure. As a key partner of Côte d’Ivoire, AFD supports various projects across multiple sectors.

• In urban development, for example, AFD has financed urban mobility projects in Abidjan, aiding in the completion of transport infrastructure rehabilitation operations.
• AFD is also focusing on sustainable infrastructure development to ensure the prosperity of Abidjan and the surrounding region.
• In addition, AFD’s mission includes boosting sustainable agriculture, strengthening territorial integration, and ensuring equal access to basic services.
• The agency is also supporting the Ivorian government in implementing the National Development Plan with substantial funding.

In this way, AFD acts as a catalyst for infrastructure development in Abidjan, directly contributing to the city’s economic growth.

African Development Bank investments in Côte d’Ivoire

The African Development Bank (ADB), based in Abidjan, is a key player in the city’s economic development. It significantly contributes to various strategic infrastructure projects and supports a wide range of business sectors.

Its main activities concern :

• Financing infrastructure projects. For example, it mobilized 15.6 billion USD for the construction of a freeway at the Africa Investment Forum 2023.
• Support for the development of value chains. A loan of 260.4 million USD has been granted to the Democratic Republic of Congo for this type of project.
• Support for the agricultural sector. In particular, the AfDB has set up a credit program to increase the supply of fertilizers for cocoa plantations in Côte d’Ivoire.

Improving living standards : Education and health in Abidjan

Improving living standards in Abidjan involves enhancing access to education and healthcare, both crucial for human development and economic growth.

Education in Abidjan is being revitalized through coordinated efforts. Organizations like MESAD and ADEA are working to enhance the quality and accessibility of education for disadvantaged youth. Government initiatives are also focused on strengthening the education system, with an emphasis on equity and inclusion.

The health sector in Abidjan receives significant support as well. NGOs such as SED-CI are active in healthcare, while UNESCO focuses on providing quality sex education and HIV education to children and young people. Additionally, AFD contributes to improving healthcare services and their quality.

Impact of companies on Abidjan’s development

Public and private companies play a crucial role in Abidjan’s development, driving economic growth and job creation, which in turn boosts the standard of living. Their impact is particularly significant in the infrastructure sector.

Numerous private firms are engaged in the construction and modernization of infrastructure in Abidjan, including roads, energy systems, and digital networks. Their efforts enhance urban mobility and foster the growth of the digital sector, both essential for the city’s economic vibrancy.

Many of these infrastructure projects are privately funded, underscoring the private sector’s commitment to sustainable development. Additionally, private companies are increasingly participating in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, further advancing the achievement of sustainable development goals in Abidjan.

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire’s richest city : Current situation

Abidjan’s economic situation remains robust despite global challenges. Concentrating 80 % of the country’s economic activity, the city has sustained growth with a rate of 6.5 % in 2023, while keeping inflation under control at 4.4 %.

This performance reflects a vibrant business environment, driven by the extractive and manufacturing industries, construction, public works, and retail trade. However, economic disparities between Abidjan and the rest of the country persist, despite ongoing efforts to reduce poverty.

While the COVID-19 crisis has impacted the Ivorian economy, it has not stifled its dynamism. Facing challenges such as climate change and regional inequalities, the city remains resilient and continues to demonstrate positive economic growth.

Economic and social outlook for Abidjan

The economic and social outlook for Abidjan is promising, with steady growth expected to continue. The diversification of the economy, particularly through the expansion of the private sector and SMEs, is enhancing the city’s resilience.

• The development of digital infrastructure is a key challenge for the city’s economic future, as it promotes innovation and attracts foreign investment.
• Emphasis is also placed on improving human capital through initiatives aimed at reducing disparities and enhancing access to quality education and healthcare.

The transition to a greener economy is also a priority, focusing on mitigating the impact of climate change and promoting sustainable growth.

Abidjan and its GDP : Indicator of economic development

As Côte d’Ivoire’s major economic center, Abidjan plays a crucial role in the country’s GDP growth. The city’s infrastructure development is a key driver of this growth, making Abidjan’s GDP a significant indicator of national economic development.

In recent years, Abidjan’s GDP has grown considerably, thanks to substantial investments in infrastructure. These investments span various sectors, including transport, the digital economy, energy, and industry. Structural projects, especially in infrastructure, have significantly accelerated the city’s GDP growth rate.

• Transport infrastructure: Urban mobility in Abidjan significantly impacts economic growth. Enhanced mobility could boost economic growth by at least 1 %.
• The digital economy: The development of digital infrastructure has a substantial impact on GDP. The ICT sector, in particular, is growing rapidly and increasingly contributing to GDP.
• Energy and industrial infrastructures: Developing these infrastructures is crucial for supporting industrialization and energy production, both of which are key drivers of economic growth.

All these factors highlight the critical role of infrastructure investment in Abidjan’s economic development.

The role of the Road Infrastructure Department

The Road Infrastructure Department (DGIR) is a cornerstone of road infrastructure development in Côte d’Ivoire. It coordinates the activities of three Central Departments, each with specific responsibilities. To achieve its goals, the DGIR operates through five attached departments, including the IT and General Resources Department and the Contracts Department.

DGIR has established itself as a key partner for road stakeholders, providing support across various rural and urban development sectors.

The importance of road infrastructure for economic development

Road infrastructure is crucial for economic growth, enhancing connectivity between regions and facilitating the movement of people and goods.

In Côte d’Ivoire, expanding the road network is seen as a key factor in boosting the economy. Improved accessibility encourages business establishment, promotes employment, and enhances living conditions.

For instance, the Rural Connectivity Project aims to rehabilitate and maintain around 15,000 km of roads, linking isolated areas and stimulating local economies. Investments in road infrastructure have a direct economic impact, as evidenced by the 173 million EUR commitment from AFD and the Ivorian government to fund priority projects.

In summary, developing road infrastructure is a major challenge for Côte d’Ivoire’s economic growth, requiring significant investment and careful planning to ensure a functional and sustainable network.

Road construction : Major challenge for Côte d’Ivoire

Road construction is a strategic lever for Côte d’Ivoire’s economic development. This major initiative promotes :

• Mobility of goods and people
• Opening up rural areas
• Local economic activities

Despite a substantial budget for upgrading and maintaining the road network, Côte d’Ivoire faces significant challenges. Structural projects are underway to transform cities and enhance national connectivity. Key elements of the national strategy include constructing new bridges and rehabilitating existing roads.

Roads : The most popular means of transport in Côte d’Ivoire

In Côte d’Ivoire, road transport is the primary mode of travel and exchange. The road network spans nearly 82,000 km, with 7,731 km paved, making roads crucial for transporting goods, moving people, and accessing services. Roads are indispensable and central to the daily lives of Ivorians.

Urban road transport services are predominantly concentrated in Abidjan, where the Abidjan Transport Company (SOTRA) operates a mass transit system with about fifty lines serving various communities.

In rural areas, roads are vital for accessing markets and essential services. While the overall state of road infrastructure in Côte d’Ivoire is generally good, with some regions enjoying a high-quality network and others undergoing rehabilitation, improving and maintaining the road network remains a top priority for the country.

The Ivorian road network : Current situation and challenges ahead

Côte d’Ivoire’s road network spans 82,000 km, including about 7,500 km of paved roads. Between 2015 and 2023, substantial investments have led to the completion of 2,604 km of road projects, encompassing both new construction and the rehabilitation of existing roads. Despite this progress, challenges persist.

The rapid growth of Côte d’Ivoire’s population and economy necessitates ongoing expansion and modernization of the road network. This requires substantial investment and meticulous planning to ensure a functional and sustainable infrastructure.

Upgrading the road network : Major projects underway

The modernization of Côte d’Ivoire’s road network includes several major projects poised to significantly impact the Ivorian economy. These initiatives aim to enhance the condition of the road network, making it more efficient and inclusive.

These projects include :

• The Rural Connectivity Project (PCR), supported by the World Bank, aims to rehabilitate and maintain approximately 15,000 km of roads and rural infrastructure across 11 regions of Côte d’Ivoire.
• The construction and rehabilitation of roads and bridges across the region aim to improve connectivity between localities and support economic development.
• The 6th Road Maintenance Program for 2023-2025 has a planned budget of 600 million EUR for upgrading and maintaining the national road network.

These road network modernization projects are essential for improving access to basic services, facilitating the transport of goods, and stimulating local economic activities. They are integral to the national road infrastructure development strategy and support Côte d’Ivoire’s economic development goals.

Road infrastructure investment : Sources and uses

Investment in road infrastructure comes from a variety of sources, including :

• State budget
• International loans
• Public-private partnerships

For example, in 2023, the Ivorian government invested EUR 3.9 billion in road infrastructure. Additionally, international organizations like the World Bank offer technical and financial support for road rehabilitation and maintenance.

The allocation of these funds is strategically aligned with the country’s priorities. A significant portion is dedicated to constructing new roads and rehabilitating existing ones. Additionally, funds are used for specific projects like building bridges and other engineering structures, which enhance traffic flow and connectivity across the country.

These investments aim not only to improve the road network but also to support economic development and enhance living conditions.

Rural roads : Lever for economic and social inclusion

Rural roads in Côte d’Ivoire are vital for economic and social inclusion, connecting communities and providing access to markets and essential services. For instance, the Rural Connectivity Project (PCR) aims to rehabilitate approximately 15,000 km of roads across 11 regions. This significant effort is focused on ensuring resilient and sustainable rural connectivity.

• These efforts are bolstered by substantial investments, including the 300 million USD allocated to the Rural Infrastructure and Integrated Road Network Project in northern Côte d’Ivoire.
• The aim is to open up rural areas, promote regional integration, and reduce travel times and costs for people and goods.

These initiatives aim to enhance living conditions for rural populations and stimulate local economic development. They also support the objectives of the 2021-2025 National Development Plan, which emphasizes constructing road infrastructure to improve both urban and rural mobility.

Environmental impact of road construction

Road building has a notable impact on the environment. The ecological footprint of these projects can be significant, particularly concerning CO₂ emissions, water and material consumption, and disruption of local ecosystems.

It can lead to soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat fragmentation. To address these issues, Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) are systematically conducted before starting road projects. These assessments aim to identify, anticipate, and mitigate potential impacts on the environment and local communities.

Conclusion : Future outlook for road infrastructure in Côte d’Ivoire

The outlook for road infrastructure in Côte d’Ivoire is promising, with several major projects underway and planned for the future. The goal is to enhance the quality and efficiency of the road network, thereby supporting economic growth and improving population mobility.

• The focus is on enhancing rural connectivity, with initiatives like the Rural Connectivity Project (PCR), which aims to rehabilitate approximately 15,000 km of roads across 11 regions of the country.
• Additionally, the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) has approved a 100 million EUR loan for constructing 22 bridges across 10 districts in 8 regions.