The Operation FANGHA, a part of the Grand Exercice Multinational (GEX 2026), concluded on Thursday, November 12, 2026, in Yamoussoukro, Côte d'Ivoire. The exercise, which involved the Ivoirian, French, and Gabonese armed forces, aimed to enhance interoperability and combat readiness among the participating nations. The closing ceremony was attended by senior military officials, including General Lassina Doumbia, Chief of General Staff of the Ivoirian Armed Forces.
During the exercise, the participating forces conducted joint air, land, and sea operations in various locations, including Yakro, Jacqueville, and Bouaké. The operations focused on locating and neutralizing enemy targets, demonstrating the forces' ability to work together seamlessly. General Doumbia expressed satisfaction with the exercise, citing the camaraderie and solidarity displayed among the teams. He also acknowledged that the exercise had helped identify areas for improvement, which would be addressed before the next phase in Gabon.
The exercise was designed to improve the interoperability of the participating forces, allowing them to operate effectively together in a multinational environment. General Doumbia emphasized that the exercise was not just about military operations but also about building relationships and trust among the participating nations. The Ivoirian Armed Forces have been working closely with their French and Gabonese counterparts to enhance their capabilities and respond to regional security challenges.
In his remarks, General Doumbia highlighted the importance of partnerships in modern military operations. He noted that no country operates in isolation and that alliances are essential for achieving strategic objectives. The partnership between Côte d'Ivoire and France, he said, is a "gagnant-gagnant" (win-win) arrangement, where both parties benefit from each other's strengths and expertise.
The exercise also addressed the threat of terrorism in the sub-region, with General Doumbia affirming Côte d'Ivoire's readiness to face this challenge alongside its allies. He emphasized that the Ivoirian Armed Forces have evaluated their techniques and expertise, and are confident in their ability to operate effectively with their partners. The exercise has demonstrated the commitment of Côte d'Ivoire and its partners to regional security and stability.
The next phase of Operation FANGHA is scheduled to take place in Gabon in the coming days. General Doumbia expressed his optimism about the exercise, citing the progress made during the Ivoirian phase. He emphasized that the exercise has strengthened the relationships between the participating forces and has enhanced their ability to respond to regional security challenges.
The conclusion of Operation FANGHA marks a significant milestone in the military cooperation between Côte d'Ivoire, France, and Gabon. The exercise has demonstrated the commitment of these nations to regional security and stability, and has enhanced their ability to operate effectively together in a multinational environment.
Key points
- The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability and combat readiness among the participating nations.
- The partnership between Côte d'Ivoire and France is a "gagnant-gagnant" arrangement, where both parties benefit from each other's strengths and expertise.
- The exercise addressed the threat of terrorism in the sub-region, with General Doumbia affirming Côte d'Ivoire's readiness to face this challenge alongside its allies.
