AFD Provides 11.3 Billion FCFA to Boost Creative and Cultural Industries in Côte d'Ivoire

On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Finance and Budget, Adama Coulibaly, alongside the French Ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire, Jean-Christophe Belliard, and the Director of the French Development Agency (AFD), Adrien Haye, signed a financial agreement worth 11.3 billion FCFA. This funding is part of the 3rd Debt Reduction and Development Contract (C2D) and is dedicated to supporting the development of creative and cultural industries in Côte d'Ivoire.

The signing ceremony, held in Abidjan-Plateau, was attended by Françoise Remarck, Minister of Culture and Francophonie. The project aims to improve access to cultural activities for people in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly in Bouaké, through the rehabilitation and better management of the Jacques AKA Cultural Center (CCJA) in Bouaké. In addition, the project will contribute to the economic growth of the creative and cultural industries sector (ICC) by supporting its professionalization and structuring.

Minister Adama Coulibaly emphasized the significance of this funding, stating that it will enhance the Ministry of Culture's capacity to implement its cultural strategy and ensure better governance of the ICC sector. He also highlighted the broader social impact of cultural policies, which serve as key tools in promoting contemporary art and maintaining societal balance.

"This agreement represents a major step forward in helping the Ivorian government achieve the objectives set out in the 2021-2025 National Development Plan (PND)," stated Minister Coulibaly

MC