The Gontougo Regional Council in Côte d'Ivoire has been awarded the third national prize for its performance in implementing the Youth Employment Project, phase 3 (C2D3). The award was presented during a ceremony held on October 17, 2026, at the Abidjan Exhibition Park. This project aims to promote the socio-professional integration and economic autonomy of young people. The council received the award during the fourth edition of the Territorial Collectivities Fair.

The first vice-president of the Gontougo Regional Council, Senator Kossonou Kouassi Ignace, presented the award to the regional councilors during their fourth ordinary meeting held on November 7, 2026, in Bondoukou. He commended the efforts made to improve young people's access to employment and income-generating activities. This award recognizes the results achieved by the regional institution in implementing the professional insertion program.

The Gontougo Regional Council ranked third nationally, behind the Yamoussoukro Autonomous District and the Iffou region. The trophy and recognition diploma were awarded by the Bureau de Coordination des Programmes Emploi (BCPE) in collaboration with the Ministry in charge of Youth Promotion, Professional Insertion, and Civic Service. The C2D3 project in Gontougo is based on several support mechanisms, including financing income-generating activities and micro and small enterprises.

The project also provides support to village savings and credit associations (AVEC) and high labor-intensive works (THIMO). According to the data provided, 520 young people aged 18 to 40 benefit from the AGR/MPE device, while 600 others benefit from AVEC support in rural areas. The THIMO component also offers paid activity opportunities to vulnerable young people.

This award follows an evaluation mission by the BCPE conducted in August 2026, which highlighted the results achieved in the region and the collaboration between the Regional Council, technical teams, and structures responsible for implementing the program. The senator announced that the regional council's final session would take place in December 2026.

During this meeting, the president of the institution, Minister of State Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, will address the populations of Gontougo on the actions carried out and the region's development prospects. The award ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including local authorities and representatives from the Ministry.

The Gontougo Regional Council's achievement demonstrates its commitment to promoting youth employment and economic empowerment in the region. The council's efforts have been recognized nationally, and it is expected that this award will inspire other regional councils to prioritize youth development initiatives.

Key points

  • The Gontougo Regional Council has won the third national prize for its implementation of the Youth Employment Project, phase 3 (C2D3).
  • The project provides support to young people through various mechanisms, including financing income-generating activities and micro and small enterprises.
  • The award recognizes the results achieved by the regional institution in implementing the professional insertion program.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.