The World Bank has expressed strong satisfaction with the management and execution of its $5 billion project portfolio in Côte d’Ivoire, citing the country’s exceptional performance in disbursements and project implementation across critical development sectors.
Speaking after a high-level meeting with Ivorian Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé in Abidjan, Ousmane Diagana, World Bank Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, described Côte d’Ivoire as a leading performer in the region and a model of effective development collaboration.
“As a strategic partner of Côte d’Ivoire, we are pleased with the progress made and will continue to collaborate by providing not just financing, but also knowledge, policy advice, and technical assistance,” Mr. Diagana stated.
He revealed that Côte d’Ivoire currently ranks first in disbursement efficiency across the West and Central Africa sub-region, an achievement that signals strong institutional capacity and government commitment to delivering on its development agenda.
High Impact Portfolio
The World Bank’s $5 billion investment spans a wide range of priority sectors critical to the country’s long-term growth and resilience. These include:
- Human Capital Development: Projects supporting education, health, and social protection aimed at improving living standards and building a more productive population.
- Agricultural Value Chain Expansion: Initiatives to modernize agriculture, improve rural incomes, and boost food security.
- Infrastructure Enhancement: Key investments in transport, energy, and urban development to support industrialization and regional integration.
- Private Sector Growth: Programs aimed at improving the business climate, supporting entrepreneurship, and unlocking investment.
- Climate Resilience: Projects to strengthen the country’s ability to withstand environmental shocks and build sustainable ecosystems.
Pathway to a New Development Vision
Mr. Diagana noted that the timing of the World Bank’s support is crucial, as Côte d’Ivoire is in the final stages of developing its next National Development Plan (PND). He expressed optimism that the country’s strong track record will serve as a foundation for even more ambitious targets.
“The strong performance we are witnessing opens new prospects, especially as Côte d’Ivoire prepares its next national development strategy. The World Bank stands ready to support this process with strategic insights and financial instruments,” he added.
A Regional Model
Côte d’Ivoire’s ability to efficiently absorb and utilize donor resources has not gone unnoticed. With robust macroeconomic fundamentals, a growing middle class, and sustained public investments, the country continues to position itself as a beacon of stability and economic leadership in the sub-region.
The World Bank’s endorsement is expected to further boost investor confidence and support the government’s vision of becoming an emerging economy by 2030.
