Amadou Coulibaly, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, officially launched the 4th edition of the Abidjan International Audiovisual Content Market (SICA 2026) on May 7, 2026, at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire. The event is scheduled to take place from November 26 to 28, 2026, under the theme: “Content Economy and Cultural Diplomacy: Better Structuring the African Audiovisual and Film Industry.”

During the launch ceremony, Amadou Coulibaly said his ambition is to position Côte d’Ivoire as a regional hub for audiovisual production. “We want to build a true content economy. We want to create African champions. SICA is not just an event; it is a promise — that of an Africa telling its own stories, asserting itself, and transforming its culture into economic power and influence,” he said.

The minister stressed that for too long, narratives about Africa were produced elsewhere, adding that audiovisual content has now become not only a cultural expression, but also an economic asset, a tool of influence and an instrument of sovereignty. According to him, this sovereignty requires a strong, structured and competitive industry capable of producing, financing and distributing its own content.

Françoise Remarck, Minister of Culture and Francophonie, stated that Côte d’Ivoire has made culture, cinema and creative industries key drivers of transformation, influence and attractiveness. She noted that the country is increasingly emerging as a credible destination for film productions and creative industries.

Remarck revealed that in 2025, more than 400,000 cinema admissions were recorded in Côte d’Ivoire, generating over 1.5 billion CFA francs in revenue, which she described as proof of the country’s growing cultural industry.

Japan, the guest country of honor for SICA 2026, will be represented by companies specializing in the content industry. Junji Gomakubo also announced free screenings of Japanese films during the event.