The Ivorian model praised by the World Bank

On Monday, May 11, 2026, a high-level working session was held on the 22nd floor conference room of the Postel 2001 building between Jacques Assahoré Konan, Minister of Water and Forests, and a delegation from the World Bank Group led by Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, following a strategic mission focused on supporting the implementation of the Forest Investment Project Phase 2 (PIF 2).

The high-level meeting provided an opportunity to assess the major progress achieved in the implementation of the project, particularly in:

• the restoration and intensive reforestation of classified forests;

• the optimization of sustainable management of protected areas;

• the modernization of forest monitoring and surveillance systems;

• strengthening the participation of local communities in forest governance;

• as well as promoting inclusive income-generating economic activities for surrounding communities.

The World Bank Group praised the performances recorded by the Ministry of Water and Forests while highlighting the visionary leadership of Minister Jacques Assahoré Konan in driving ambitious reforms in Côte d’Ivoire’s forestry sector.

Discussions also focused on several strategic priorities, including:

• the development and consolidation of the Ivorian agroforestry model;

• strengthening collaboration with the private sector;

• mobilizing carbon-related financing;

• and accelerating project disbursement mechanisms.

The World Bank particularly emphasized the innovative and exemplary nature of Côte d’Ivoire’s forest restoration model, which is now viewed as an inspiring reference for several countries engaged in ecological transition efforts.

For his part, Minister Jacques Assahoré Konan reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to intensifying actions aimed at preserving and restoring the country’s forest cover, while creating sustainable and inclusive economic opportunities for local communities.