The Prefect of Béoumi, Asséman Koffi Patrick, made this commitment on October 24, 2026, in Abouakro, during a meeting with the Fari tribe. The tribe's spokesperson, Diby Georges, highlighted the difficulties they face with land ownership, which dates back to the construction of the Kossou hydroelectric dam in the 1970s. The dam's construction led to the displacement of several villages.
The Fari tribe is seeking a dialogue with the authorities to find a solution to their land access problems. Their concerns also extend to the development of their community. They requested the construction of a water tower and the completion of the potable water supply system. Additionally, they called for the reprofiling of the Kongossou-Diéviessou axis and the paving of the Fari-M'Gbabo-Ando-Kékrénou road.
The tribe's list of demands includes the construction and equipping of healthcare and school infrastructure in Abouakro. They also requested the building of a modern college, a rural vocational training center, and the extension of the electrical network. Furthermore, they seek to improve the public lighting system and have their area elevated to a commune status, specifically for Agbayansi-N'Zoupouri-Ouongrè.
In response to the Fari tribe's concerns, Prefect Asséman Koffi Patrick announced his participation in a roundtable discussion on October 28, 2026, in Abidjan. The discussion will focus on the governance and management of land in areas affected by the Aménagement de la vallée du Bandama (AVB). He assured the tribe that he would be their voice at the meeting.
The Prefect stated that the administration would forward their requests to the relevant authorities for those that fall outside his jurisdiction. However, regarding the creation of a sub-prefecture, he advised the tribe to work with the sub-prefect to prepare a technical dossier. He also urged village chiefs, landowners, and residents to report any illegal gold mining activities.
The goal is to put an end to illegal gold mining in the department within two months. The Prefect's engagement with the Fari tribe demonstrates the government's efforts to address local concerns and improve community development. The outcome of the roundtable discussion and the implementation of the Fari tribe's requests remain to be seen.
The situation highlights the complexities of land management and community development in Côte d'Ivoire. The government's response to the Fari tribe's concerns will likely have implications for similar communities facing land and development challenges.
Key points
- The Prefect of Béoumi has pledged to address the land concerns and development aspirations of the Fari tribe with the government.
- The Fari tribe's concerns include land access, infrastructure development, and community services.
- The Prefect will participate in a roundtable discussion on land governance and management in areas affected by the Aménagement de la vallée du Bandama (AVB).
