Council of Ministers: infrastructure, climate, mining and oil at the center of government decisions

The Ivorian government held a Council of Ministers meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, chaired by the Head of State, Alassane Ouattara.

Several major decisions were adopted in the areas of climate development, road infrastructure, mining, petroleum, and public budget governance.

Over CFA 11 billion for the Niger Basin

The Council ratified three financing agreements signed with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the African Development Fund (ADF), amounting to more than CFA 11 billion, dedicated to additional funding for the Integrated Programme for Development and Climate Change Adaptation in the Niger Basin (PIDACC/BN).

This programme aims to:

• preserve Niger Basin ecosystems,
• reduce river silting,
• strengthen agro-sylvo-pastoral production systems,
• improve natural resource management,
• and increase forest coverage in the former cocoa belt.

The project covers several central regions of the country, including Bélier, Gbêkê, N’Zi, Moronou, and Iffou, benefiting approximately 30,000 direct beneficiaries, including 30% women and 20% youth.

CFA 30 billion for the Northern Highway

The Council also approved a CFA 30 billion loan agreement with the West African Development Bank (BOAD) to partially finance the construction of the Kobo–Kanawolo section of the Northern Highway.

Spanning 47.3 km, the road will be built as a dual carriageway to support growing traffic along the corridor linking the Port of Abidjan to landlocked countries in the sub-region.

New mining exploration permits granted

Four gold exploration permits were granted to companies operating in several regions across the country.

KOFAMEX INTERNATIONAL SARL received two permits in Mankono and Bouaké, while WEST AFRICA MINERAL RESOURCES CÔTE D’IVOIRE SARL obtained permits covering Daoukro, M’Bahiakro, Dianra, Korhogo, Boundiali, and Mankono.

These permits are valid for four years and comply with all technical and environmental requirements.

State strengthens stake in Compagnie Minière du Bafing

The government also approved an increase in the State’s financial participation in the Compagnie Minière du Bafing (CMB).

Through the acquisition of 1,500 shares worth CFA 3.5 billion, the State’s stake rises from 10% to 25%, while SODEMI maintains its 5% shareholding, bringing total public participation to 30%.

New oil production-sharing contracts with Petrobras

The Council announced the upcoming signing of eight new Production Sharing Contracts with Brazilian company PETROBRAS for offshore blocks CI-513, CI-600, CI-601, CI-602, CI-603, CI-605, CI-701, and CI-702.

According to the government, this agreement will increase the occupancy rate of the national sedimentary basin to 75%, opening prospects for major new oil discoveries.

Economic growth projected at 6.8% (2027–2029)

The Council also adopted the 2027–2029 Multiannual Budgetary and Economic Programming Document (DPBEP).

The government forecasts an average annual GDP growth of 6.8% over the period, despite international economic and geopolitical tensions.

The strategy includes:

• strengthening domestic revenue mobilization,
• controlling public debt,
• increasing structural investments,
• enhancing poverty reduction efforts,
• and improving climate resilience.

The budget deficit is expected to gradually decline from 3.5% of GDP in 2027 to 3% in 2028 and 2029, in line with WAEMU standards.

Waste management measures in Abidjan

In response to disruptions in household waste collection services and the accumulation of garbage in several municipalities of the Abidjan District, the government has announced emergency measures to restore normal sanitation conditions.

The Head of State has instructed the Prime Minister to closely monitor the situation and ensure a sustainable return to normal.