MASA 2026: First Lady Dominique Ouattara Inaugurates Innovation Village, Bridging Tradition and New Technologies

As part of the 14th edition of the Market for African Performing Arts (MASA), Côte d’Ivoire’s First Lady, Dominique Ouattara, officially inaugurated the Innovation Village on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the Palais de la Culture de Treichville. This unique space is designed as a bridge between African traditions and modern technologies.

High-Level Attendance

The inauguration ceremony brought together several distinguished personalities, including Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). Also in attendance were members of the government such as Françoise Remarck, Minister of Culture and Francophonie, and Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization, who served as the event’s patron.

Members of the diplomatic corps, as well as numerous artists and fashion designers, also attended the ceremony.

A Hub for Culture and Innovation

Presented as one of the flagship attractions of MASA 2026, the Innovation Village embodies the intersection of cultural heritage and technological innovation. For the First Lady, it represents far more than an exhibition space:

“It is a living demonstration of the expertise of our local talents, capable of reinventing themselves, engaging with today’s technologies, and fostering avant-garde cultural creation.”

Dominique Ouattara also praised the outstanding work of Minister Françoise Remarck and all stakeholders in the cultural and creative industries. She emphasized that the quality of MASA’s programming—particularly that of the Innovation Village—is a source of national pride and a strong signal for Africa’s global cultural influence.

Empowering African Creativity

Addressing innovators, startups, and creators present at the event, Djibril Ouattara highlighted that the Innovation Village was designed to showcase their creative genius. He encouraged them to believe in their potential:

“The solutions you develop, the ideas you explore, and the products you imagine contribute to building an African cultural ecosystem that belongs to all of us. Africa is full of talent; what we must now build is self-confidence.”

A Vibrant Closing Ceremony

The inauguration concluded with a colorful fashion and performance show, celebrating artists, stylists, and designers who contribute to promoting Côte d’Ivoire’s rich cultural heritage, in a creative and inspiring atmosphere.

MASA 2026: A Platform for Integration

A true cultural crossroads and platform for exchange, MASA 2026 is being held from April 11 to 18 under the theme:

“Performing Arts in Africa: A Tool for Economic and Social Integration.”