Côte d'Ivoire is prioritizing better anticipation of urbanization to avoid imbalances in land use and improve living conditions. The government, led by Minister of Urbanism, Housing, and Living Environment Moussa Sanogo, presented its urban planning policy on October 29, 2026, at a high-level panel discussion. The policy focuses on roads, housing, collective equipment, and preservation of green spaces. Sanogo emphasized that rapid urban growth presents both opportunities and challenges.
Minister Sanogo highlighted that cities like Abidjan are hubs for economic activity, attracting skills and promoting exchanges. However, this growth puts pressure on infrastructure and public services. The government must anticipate and prepare for these challenges before they become complex to address. Sanogo stressed the importance of not waiting for neighborhoods to be fully occupied before implementing necessary infrastructure.
Sanogo emphasized the need to consider local specificities in urban planning choices. He cited Korhogo, where sacred forests within urban areas demonstrate the importance of cultural and historical realities in designing African cities. Urban planning policies must adapt to each locality's environment and specificities. Sanogo also insisted on the application of urban planning documents, rather than just their creation.
The panel discussion included Enrique Peñalosa, former mayor of Bogotá, Colombia, who shared his experience with urban planning challenges in his city. Peñalosa highlighted the difficulties and costs of making infrastructure improvements in areas built without prior planning. His testimony underscored the importance of preparing spaces for development before occupation.
The event also featured Yomi Ademola, principal responsible for West Africa and country director for Nigeria, and Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, division director for the World Bank Group for Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Togo, and Benin. The discussions emphasized the importance of planning in addressing urbanization challenges in Africa.
Sanogo's presentation and the panel discussion highlighted the need for proactive urban planning to address the challenges of rapid urban growth in Africa. The Ivoirian government's urban planning strategy aims to balance economic growth with sustainable development and improved living conditions.
The urban planning strategy presented by Minister Sanogo will be crucial in shaping the future of Côte d'Ivoire's cities and addressing the challenges of urbanization. The government's commitment to proactive urban planning and management will help create more sustainable and livable cities in Africa.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire's government, led by Minister Moussa Sanogo, is prioritizing urban planning and management to address the challenges of rapid urban growth.
- The urban planning strategy focuses on roads, housing, collective equipment, and preservation of green spaces to improve living conditions.
- The government emphasizes the need to consider local specificities and adapt urban planning policies to each locality's environment and specificities.
