Côte d'Ivoire secures €87.3 million World Bank financing for community development in western regions

Côte d'Ivoire has secured €87.3 million ($102 million) in financing from the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank's concessional lending arm, to support community development and improve access to essential services in the country's western regions.

The financing agreement, signed on June 5, 2026, was ratified by the Ivorian government during a Council of Ministers meeting on July 22. The funds will support the Community and Local Development Project for Western Côte d'Ivoire (COSO West), which aims to strengthen livelihoods and reduce regional inequalities.

The project will focus on expanding access to basic infrastructure, including schools, health centers, drinking water systems and rural roads linking agricultural production areas to local markets. It will also finance income-generating activities targeting women and young people to stimulate local economic development.

Western Côte d'Ivoire, particularly the regions of Tonkpi, Guémon and Cavally, has long faced development challenges despite its significant agricultural potential. Authorities and development partners say improving infrastructure and public services is essential to promoting social cohesion and fostering inclusive growth.

According to the World Bank, the project is expected to benefit around 1.8 million people by improving access to education, healthcare, clean water and economic opportunities. The initiative also seeks to strengthen the resilience of local communities and support sustainable territorial development.

The financing underscores the World Bank's continued support for Côte d'Ivoire's development agenda, with a focus on reducing regional disparities, creating jobs and promoting inclusive economic growth through investments at the community level.