The future of African economic progress is shaped in high-level forums where policymakers, financial institutions, and leading economists converge. These platforms set the agenda for the continent’s most pressing development challenges and opportunities.

The Minister of Planning and Development, Dr. Souleymane Diarrassouba, took center stage on July 11, 2026, delivering a keynote address at the African Economic Conference 2026. He stood alongside the President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, alongside top representatives from the United Nations, UNDP, OECD, and the UN Economic Commission for Africa—all co-hosts of the annual gathering held at the AfDB headquarters in Abidjan.

This influential event draws together Africa’s most influential development leaders, chief economists from multilateral banks, central bank governors, research institutions, and government officials to address the continent’s most transformative economic shifts.

Amid shifting geopolitical realities and evolving development financing models, Côte d’Ivoire presented its proven strategy for sustainable growth through its National Development Plan 2026–2030. The country highlighted how strategic foresight, robust investment mobilization, and targeted policy reforms are driving economic transformation.

As Côte d’Ivoire’s Governor to the African Development Bank, Dr. Diarrassouba articulated the nation’s commitment to forward-looking public policies, resilient reforms, and an enabling business environment that attracts investment and fuels long-term progress.

By participating in this conference, Côte d’Ivoire underscores its dedication to shaping continental development strategies. It leverages its recognized expertise in policy coordination, long-term planning, and multi-stakeholder partnerships to inspire broader African progress.