Global Banking & Markets Africa Awards: Côte d'Ivoire Recognized for Its Debt Governance

Côte d'Ivoire continues to assert its position in international capital markets. On March 26, 2025, the General Directorate of Financing (DGF) of the Ministry of Finance and Budget received double recognition at the Global Banking & Markets Africa Awards 2025, held at the prestigious Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa.

The Ivorian institution was honored with two major awards:

• "Sovereign, Supra & Agency Bond Deal of the Year"
• "Global Banking & Markets Deal of the Year"

These awards recognize the excellence of Côte d'Ivoire’s financial operations in international markets. Since their establishment in 2014, these distinctions have become key benchmarks for evaluating the quality of bond issuances in emerging markets, particularly in terms of structuring, innovation, and capital mobilization.

This recognition highlights Côte d'Ivoire’s technical and strategic expertise in structuring and executing complex financial transactions. It also reaffirms the country's leading role in African capital markets, aligning progressively with international debt management standards.

A Momentum Driven by Remarkable Performance

This success builds on Côte d'Ivoire’s outstanding financial performance in 2024. In January of that year, the country made history by raising $2.6 billion, marking the largest sovereign bond issuance ever undertaken by a sub-Saharan African nation. This innovative operation incorporated a currency swap to mitigate exchange rate risks, along with an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) component.

This achievement earned Côte d'Ivoire the "Best Sovereign Debt Manager in the World" award at the Risk Awards 2025.

Backed by a team of seasoned professionals from top international financial institutions, the DGF embodies the government's commitment to a proactive, rigorous, and innovative approach to debt management. This forward-thinking strategy could lead to further recognition, as the country explores new opportunities in global financial markets, including the issuance of Panda Bonds in China and Samurai Bonds in Japan.

A Commitment to Sustainable Development

By investing in the sophistication of its financial instruments and the credibility of its institutions, Côte d'Ivoire continues its upward trajectory in global markets. This performance aligns with a broader strategic vision aimed at strengthening the country's economic resilience while ensuring sustainable and inclusive development.