Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Trade, Industry and Handicrafts, Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, has announced an agreement with Chinese investors to develop tilapia farming in the Hambol region. The initiative aims to harness the region's economic potential through investment in aquaculture, specifically tilapia production. The project will be implemented in the departments of Dabakala, Katiola, Niakara, and the Tafiré area. This move aligns with recommendations from the Economic, Social and Environmental Council of the Hambol Regional Council.
The agreement was made during the fourth statutory meeting of the Hambol Regional Council, held in Dabakala on October 10, 2026. The meeting, presided over by Konaté, also saw the adoption of the 2027 budget, which stands at 8,921,001,000 FCFA. This represents a 31.45% increase from the 2026 budget of 6,786,889,000 FCFA. The 2027 budget allocates 1,209,571,000 FCFA for operational costs and 7,711,430,000 FCFA for investments.
The 2027 budget prioritizes investments in infrastructure, social services, collective equipment, and human promotion. This focus on investment is reflected in the allocation of 86.44% of the budget to investments, while 13.56% is dedicated to operational costs. The increase in budget is largely due to a significant rise in equipment subsidies, aimed at enhancing the region's intervention capacity.
The meeting also reviewed the execution of ongoing projects from July to September 2026. The council authorized the payment of 640,337,527 FCFA, representing 76.17% progress on a total amount of 840,661,242 FCFA. Ten items were on the agenda, including budget approvals, examination and adoption of the 2027 budget, and various administrative and financial management issues.
Konaté expressed gratitude to the prefectural corps, led by the prefect of Dabakala, Coulibaly Sié, for their support and accompaniment. He also acknowledged the commitment of regional councilors, with 44 present, seven represented, and three absent, marking a 94.44% participation rate. The council's efforts aim to strengthen economic growth and improve living conditions for the population.
The adoption of the increased budget and the agreement with Chinese investors demonstrate the Hambol Regional Council's commitment to development. The council's initiatives are expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy and the well-being of its inhabitants. The partnership with Chinese investors is seen as a strategic move to boost the region's economic potential.
The development of tilapia farming in the Hambol region is anticipated to create new opportunities for economic growth and job creation. The project is part of a broader strategy to diversify the region's economy and promote sustainable development. The implementation of this initiative will be closely monitored, with expectations of significant benefits for the local population.
Key points
- The Hambol region secures Chinese investment to develop tilapia farming.
- The 2027 budget for the Hambol region is set at 8,921,001,000 FCFA, a 31.45% increase from 2026.
- The project aims to enhance economic growth and improve living conditions in the region.
