Driving Growth Together: Unlocking Côte d’Ivoire’s Economic Potential

The Importance of the Gathering**
On April 10, 2025, Côte d’Ivoire held a landmark event showcasing the country’s dedication to advancing economic progress through cooperative initiatives. The meeting brought together senior officials, influential business leaders, and specialists in economic development to foster constructive dialogue and partnerships aimed at strengthening the Ivorian economy. The true value of this event lies in its ability to open new doors and establish connections among diverse stakeholders, enhancing Côte d’Ivoire’s presence on the international economic stage.

Among the key contributors, Ms. Hawa Kebe was particularly notable for her work in driving economic development efforts. Her leadership seeks to cultivate innovation and improved efficiency across Côte d’Ivoire’s markets. Additionally, the co-chairs from Gotlinks played a crucial role in steering discussions and proposing strategies that align with sustainable economic growth. Their experience and expertise are pivotal in addressing modern economic challenges, ensuring collaborative initiatives deliver measurable outcomes.

Inspiring opening statements were presented by distinguished individuals such as Mr. Yann Huguenard, Youssouf Simbo Diakité, and Mrs. Laure Mockey Tchicaya. Their insights underscored the value of public-private partnerships and stressed the importance of a unified approach to resolving economic hurdles. This set the stage for thought-provoking exchanges, where participants explored inventive strategies and practices aimed at ensuring Côte d’Ivoire’s long-term prosperity.

The primary objective of the event was to establish a forum for sharing knowledge and fostering teamwork, ultimately building economic resilience and creating favorable conditions for growth and investment. The outcomes of this landmark gathering are expected to leave a profound and enduring impact on the nation’s developmental trajectory.

Keynote Speeches: Perspectives from Leaders
At a recent conference devoted to Côte d’Ivoire’s economic progress, H.E. Mr. Cissé Yacouba and H.E. Mr. Rapulane Sydney Molekane delivered impactful addresses on regional economic advancements and the evolving collaboration with Austria. Each leader offered unique viewpoints on growth, partnership, and the future.

H.E. Mr. Cissé Yacouba emphasized the critical importance of investments in infrastructure and technology. He provided compelling data showcasing advancements in agriculture, manufacturing, and digital services, reinforcing the need for a solid economic structure to attract both local and global businesses.

Similarly, H.E. Mr. Rapulane Sydney Molekane highlighted the potential benefits of strengthening ties between Côte d’Ivoire and Austria. He explained how this partnership could support not only economic growth but also foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Molekane stressed that such alliances demonstrate the strength of collaborative efforts in tackling global challenges and driving shared prosperity.

These keynote speeches collectively highlighted a shared dedication to improving Côte d’Ivoire’s economic outlook through strategic international alliances, setting forth an optimistic vision for the future.

Investment Prospects in Priority Areas
Côte d’Ivoire’s economic environment offers a wealth of opportunities in a variety of important sectors, capturing the attention of potential investors and collaborators alike. Several prominent speakers delved into these prospects, pointing out sectors with significant potential for sustainable advancement.

M. Emmanuel Trah Bi opened the session by outlining the nation’s industrialization strategy. He emphasized government efforts to establish a business-friendly environment conducive to increasing productivity and job creation. This blueprint aims not only to bolster domestic industries but also to draw in foreign investors seeking promising opportunities.

Mrs. Carole Versteeg highlighted the role of the Centre for Promotion of Investments in Côte d’Ivoire (CEPICI) in creating a streamlined investment process. She detailed the various incentives available, such as tax benefits and simplified administrative procedures, designed to attract both local and international investments.

M. Benjamin Walker spoke about the potential of Ivorian exports, focusing on the country’s rich agricultural output and unique artisanal goods. He emphasized the importance of refining marketing strategies to secure a stronger global presence for these products. Finally, Mr. Mamadou Yoda shared insights on initiatives supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which are instrumental in driving innovation and boosting local employment. By supporting SMEs, Côte d’Ivoire can harness the entrepreneurial energy of its citizens, paving the way for a more robust and dynamic economy.

Building Long-Term Partnerships for Economic Progress
Côte d’Ivoire’s economy is undergoing a transformative phase, fueled by the establishment of enduring partnerships between private businesses and institutions. These alliances play a vital role in fostering sustainable growth and stability. Under the leadership of Mrs. Laure Mockey Tchicaya, an impressive lineup of speakers, including Mr. Martin Woller, Ms. Mariam Traore, Mr. Félix Yenan, and Mrs. Joelle Kouassi, tackled the significance of these collaborations in shaping the nation’s future.

Mr. Martin Woller outlined private sector strategies that combine economic success with social responsibility, showing how businesses can contribute to societal well-being while maintaining profitability. Ms. Mariam Traore discussed the role of policies in fostering public-private cooperation, emphasizing the importance of creating frameworks that encourage collaborative success.

Mr. Félix Yenan shared real-world examples of successful partnerships that have had a positive influence on local communities. His case studies illustrated how partnerships not only stimulate economic growth but also enhance community resilience. Finally, Mrs. Joelle Kouassi explored the ongoing efforts to sustain and expand these relationships, highlighting their pivotal role in driving Côte d’Ivoire towards a future of inclusive and sustainable development.

Through these joint efforts, Côte d’Ivoire is steadily establishing itself as a significant player in the global economy, strengthening its foundation for long-term prosperity.

Moderator: Ms. Hawa Kebe, Chairman of SETI group to introduce the speakers

Welcoming notes:

Mr. Yann HUGUENARD & Youssouf SIMBO DIAKITE, GotLinks co-chairs

Mrs. Laure MOCKEY TCHICAYA, Economic Counsellor, Director of Côte

d’Ivoire Office at UNIDO: Introductory Speech

Keynote Address:

Speech of H.E. Mr. Cissé YACOUBA, Ambassador, Permanent Representative,

Embassy of Côte d Ivoire in Austria: Welcome Speech

Mr. Kone Kinindja, representative of Director General of Industry

Remarks of H.E Mr. Rapulane Sydney MOLEKANE, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the Republic of Austria and the International Organizations based in Vienna – Representative of the African Group Vienna. Panel Discussions: “Côte d’Ivoire – Austria: A growing economic partnership”.

Lead 1:Existing opportunities by priority sectors

Address of M. Emmanuel TRAH BI, General Direction of Industry of Côte d Ivoire, presentation of Ivorian industrial development policy and framework.

Addres of Mr. Felix KOUAKOU, Chief of Department in charge of negotiations and commercial agreements, Genral Direction of Foreign Trade, presenting the ZLECAF and the dynamics in Côte d’Ivoire

Address of Mrs. Carole VERSTEEG, Deputy General Manager, Center for the

Promotion of Investments in Côte d’Ivoire (CEPICI) showcasing investment opportunities in Côte d Ivoire

Address of M. Benjamin WALKER, Market Development Director, Côte d Ivoire

Export, to give examples of products that can be placed in European supermarkets and the logistical incentives involved.

Address of Mr. Mamadou YODA, Director of growth and business development