Côte d'Ivoire's National Assembly Speaker Patrick Achi led a group of parliamentarians, including Environment Minister Abou Bamba and Health Minister Pierre Dimba, on a 3.5-kilometer hike at Abidjan's Banco National Park on October 10, 2026. The event was part of the "Health and Well-being of Deputies" program, launched during the 2026 ordinary session. The initiative aims to promote healthy living and disease prevention among parliamentarians.
The hike followed a conference on "Health, Prevention, and Longevity" held at the National Assembly Palace on October 9, 2026, featuring Ivorian and international specialists. Speaker Achi emphasized the importance of balanced eating, adequate sleep, and regular exercise for maintaining good health. He stressed that physical activity is crucial for parliamentarians to perform their duties effectively and sustainably.
Achi also highlighted the role of parliamentarians in promoting healthy practices among their constituents. He encouraged them to use their proximity to communities to raise awareness about good health habits. The choice of Banco National Park was deliberate, aiming to raise awareness about environmental conservation and forest preservation.
The park, located in the heart of Abidjan, is a vital natural space that requires protection. Achi invited the public to visit and contribute to its preservation. He mentioned the government's efforts in reforestation, agroforestry, and combating clandestine gold mining. The initiative was well-received by participants, who see it as an opportunity to practice healthy habits and strengthen camaraderie among parliamentarians.
Deputy Koné Moussa, representing Gabiadji, Doba, and San Pedro, praised the initiative, saying it combines physical activity with parliamentary cohesion. He believes it will improve the physical condition and effectiveness of parliamentarians in their legislative work. Vice-President of the National Assembly, Dr. Fatimata Traoré Diop, encouraged the public to engage in regular physical activity, emphasizing that even short walks can contribute to well-being.
The event was also marked by the wearing of pink ribbons in support of October Rose, a breast cancer awareness campaign. The initiative was welcomed by participants, who hope it will be repeated. Mamadou Diawara, the oldest deputy, expressed his satisfaction with the initiative, stressing that parliamentarians' duties extend beyond legislative work to community engagement.
The "Health and Well-being of Deputies" program is an ongoing effort to promote healthy living among parliamentarians. By engaging in regular physical activity and promoting healthy habits, Ivorian parliamentarians aim to set a positive example for their constituents and contribute to a healthier society. The program's impact is expected to be long-term, with benefits extending beyond the parliamentarians themselves to the communities they serve.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire's National Assembly Speaker Patrick Achi leads a health and wellness initiative for parliamentarians.
- The initiative aims to promote physical activity and healthy living among parliamentarians.
- The program includes a hike at Abidjan's Banco National Park and a conference on health and prevention.
