The national campaign “A girl who learns, a woman who earns” (FAFG), aimed at strengthening girls’ education, empowerment, and protection, was officially launched on Thursday, June 4, 2026 in Abidjan by the First Lady of Côte d’Ivoire, Dominique Ouattara.

“I am pleased to be able to support this beautiful initiative that promotes education, health, and the autonomy of girls and women in Côte d’Ivoire. When a girl learns, a woman earns. When a woman earns, a family progresses,” the First Lady stated.

She emphasized that education remains the foundation of girls’ empowerment. This is why the Ivorian government established the Excellence High Schools of Kong and Abobo. “Education is not a privilege. It is a fundamental right that girls must claim and a strength to be nurtured.”

The First Lady also highlighted the Women’s Support Fund of Côte d’Ivoire (FAFCI), which has enabled more than 430,000 women to access financing to develop income-generating activities.

Regarding girls’ protection, Dominique Ouattara stressed that empowerment cannot be discussed without addressing protection.

For her part, the World Bank Division Director, Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, underscored the urgency of taking action for Ivorian adolescent girls, whose population continues to grow. “By 2030, they will reach 4.2 million. By 2050, they will be 5.5 million. That is why we must act now,” she stated.