The Minister and Governor of the Autonomous District of Abidjan, Dr. Cissé Ibrahima Bacongo, was honored as a key figure in local development during the 15th edition of the African Economy Builders Awards, held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Espace Latrille Events in Deux-Plateaux, in the Cocody municipality.

The theme of this edition was: "Making Economic Integration the Engine of Africa’s Emergence." Unable to attend the official ceremony, the Minister-Governor received his trophy on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from the event’s promoter, Michel Russel Lohoré, at the annex of the Autonomous District of Abidjan.

According to Michel Russel Lohoré, this distinction recognizes Cissé Ibrahima Bacongo’s unwavering commitment to transforming Abidjan into a sustainable and harmonious metropolis. Since taking office in January 2024, he has launched concrete actions to restore urban order, rehabilitate public spaces and buildings, and clean up the District’s territory. He was also praised for the urban transformation achieved in the municipality of Koumassi during his tenure as mayor, which significantly improved the living conditions of residents.

While some of his initiatives may have raised questions at first, their outcomes are now widely acclaimed. For Russel Lohoré, Cissé Bacongo is undeniably an emblematic figure of local development, as evidenced by the numerous distinctions he has already received.

On behalf of the Minister-Governor, his Special Advisor, Narcisse N’dri, expressed gratitude to the organizing committee of the African Economy Builders Forum, while assuring the Autonomous District of Abidjan’s support for the 2026 edition, which will mark the 20th anniversary of this prestigious initiative. The event aims to spotlight individuals who love Africa and work daily for its development.

This edition honored around thirty individuals from various sectors, including business leaders, executives, and economic figures. Among the awardees was also the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Minister of Sports and Living Environment, Robert Beugré Mambé, who received a special award in recognition of his entire career.

The ceremony was attended by Ministers Khalil Konaté (Digital Transition and Digitization) and Adjé Metch Silas, who represented the Government. On behalf of the Prime Minister, Minister Khalil Konaté emphasized that the initiative not only celebrates African excellence but also highlights the continent’s ability to foster committed and visionary economic leaders.

In his speech, Michel Russel Lohoré, the forum’s initiator, praised the participants’ involvement:
"Despite your busy schedules, you answered the call. Thanks to your commitment, your advice, your support, and above all your trust, the African Economy Builders Awards have become a landmark event on the continent."
He concluded: “Today, this forum is a true showcase of prestige a celebration of the men and women who are building Africa and making it proud.”