Ivorian government delivers state-of-the-art facility to GIABA

Abidjan played host to a landmark event on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, as the Ivorian Ministry of Economy, Finance and Budget, led by Minister Adama Coulibaly, officially inaugurated the newly constructed premises of the GIABA Information Centre in the Cocody district. The ceremony marked the transfer of keys and the start of operations at this critical infrastructure, made possible by the Ivorian government in fulfillment of its obligations under the Headquarters Agreement.

This development represents a significant milestone in the regional fight against financial crime, reinforcing cooperation among West African nations to combat money laundering and terrorist financing more effectively.

A decade of commitment to financial crime prevention

The establishment of the GIABA Information Centre in Abidjan dates back to a pivotal decision by the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, adopted during its 65th ordinary session in Abuja on 26 November 2010. This decision paved the way for the creation of two specialized centres: one in Lagos (Nigeria), serving anglophone countries, and the other in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), designated for francophone and lusophone member states.

The Abidjan centre became operational on 21 September 2015, following the signing of the Headquarters Agreement between the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire and GIABA on 29 March 2014 in Yamoussoukro, coinciding with the 44th ECOWAS Heads of State and Government Summit.

Strengthening regional defenses against evolving financial threats

Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Adama Coulibaly underscored the urgent need for robust collective action in addressing increasingly sophisticated mechanisms of money laundering and terrorism financing. He emphasized that no single nation can tackle these challenges alone, stressing the importance of pooled expertise, shared intelligence and coordinated regional strategies.

The new centre is envisioned as a regional platform dedicated to awareness-raising, capacity building, research, documentation and communication. Its mission is to support ECOWAS member states and the broader West African community in their efforts to prevent and suppress financial crime.

Coulibaly expressed his hope that the facility will serve as an excellence hub in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, fostering transparency and accountability across the region.

GIABA Director highlights transformative role of the centre

Edwin W. Harris Jr., outgoing Director General of GIABA, reflected on the centre’s achievements since 2015. Under his leadership, the facility has hosted open days for youth, public conferences, regional public speaking competitions and specialized training seminars for journalists, religious leaders and civil society organizations.

It has also played a key role in supporting mutual evaluation processes, helping member states assess and strengthen their anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems. With the move to its new premises, the centre is poised to take its work to new heights.

Harris Jr. described the upgraded facility as a strategic investment for francophone and lusophone ECOWAS members, positioning it as a regional hub for knowledge, innovation and cooperation in the fight against illicit financial flows.

Expanding outreach to key stakeholders

The Director General called on public administrations, regulatory authorities, financial institutions, designated non-financial businesses and professions, universities, research centres, media outlets, civil society organizations and technical and financial partners to fully utilize the centre’s resources. He encouraged active participation in training sessions, conferences and other initiatives aimed at deepening regional expertise in financial integrity.

A special focus will be placed on engaging youth, students, researchers and young professionals. The goal is to transform the centre into a dynamic space for learning, innovation and civic engagement, promoting integrity, good governance and sustainable economic development across West Africa.

Cutting-edge technology for enhanced training

One of the standout features of the new facility is the integration of a Computer-Based Training (CBT) Centre. This advanced tool will offer tailored e-learning modules designed to meet the specific needs of different user groups, including regulators, financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, magistrates, academics and students.

Participants completing these modules will receive certificates, further professionalizing the regional response to financial crime and strengthening collective expertise in combating illicit financial flows.

A legacy of cooperation ahead of leadership transition

The official opening of the new premises, just days before Harris Jr.’s mandate concludes on 31 August 2026, symbolizes a commitment to leaving behind a durable and impactful tool for ECOWAS member states and all stakeholders. The centre is set to become a lasting platform for enhanced cooperation, information sharing and skills development in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.