Côte d'Ivoire: A Rising Star in Global Tourism

In a post-Covid-19 world characterized by growing geopolitical instability, finding the perfect destination for leisure or business has become more challenging. However, Côte d'Ivoire is standing out as a top performer in the tourism sector thanks to innovative policies and an ambitious vision for the future.

Côte d'Ivoire Among the World's Top Countries for Tourism Growth

According to the 2024 report of the Tourism and Travel Development Index (TTDI), published by the World Economic Forum in May, Côte d'Ivoire ranks as the second-fastest growing economy in the world in terms of tourism development from 2019 to 2024. With an impressive 6.4% increase in its index, the country comes just after Uzbekistan (+7.8%).

This remarkable achievement is the result of various government initiatives, particularly the ambitious "Sublime Côte d'Ivoire" program. This program aims to position the country among the top five most popular tourist destinations in Africa by 2025, focusing on improving infrastructure and enhancing tourist experiences.

AFCON 2023: A Catalyst for the Country's Image

The successful hosting of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Abidjan played a pivotal role in boosting Côte d'Ivoire’s brand as a must-visit tourist destination. This international sports event demonstrated the country's ability to host large-scale events while showcasing its rich cultural and natural assets.

A Thriving Private Sector

The growth of Côte d'Ivoire's tourism sector is not solely driven by government initiatives. Private sector players, such as Dalia Hospitality, are also contributing to the country’s tourism success. Dalia Hospitality, a leading investment fund dedicated to the hotel and tourism industry, has announced plans to invest 328 billion CFA francs over the next five years, with several major projects planned in Côte d'Ivoire. These investments will modernize tourism infrastructure and attract an increasing number of visitors.

Côte d'Ivoire Leads Africa in Tourism Growth

At the continental level, Côte d'Ivoire stands out with stronger growth than countries such as Tanzania, Egypt, and Nigeria, which saw their tourism indices increase by 4.5%, 4.3%, and 4.2%, respectively. With its substantial progress, Côte d'Ivoire is emerging as a leader in Africa's tourism development.

Thanks to a coordinated strategy between the government and the private sector, Côte d'Ivoire is well on its way to becoming one of Africa's premier tourist destinations in the coming years.

Source Sika Finance