Anne Désirée Ouloto-Lamizana highlighted infrastructure progress in education, electrification, and health in the Cavally region.
The president of the Cavally regional council, Anne Désirée Ouloto-Lamizana, reviewed socio-economic infrastructure achievements in the region during a meeting with local directors and service chiefs in Guiglo on September 4, 2026. She cited advancements in education, electrification, and health sectors since President Alassane Ouattara assumed office. Ouloto-Lamizana acknowledged that while much has been accomplished, significant work remains, particularly in ensuring access to potable water across all villages.
She emphasized the national development plan's focus on the "Water for All" program, drawing a parallel to the successful "Electricity for All" initiative. Ouloto-Lamizana pointed to Taï, a departmental capital, now connected to the national grid, a stark contrast to its previous reliance on a generator. The council president also noted the construction and rehabilitation of road infrastructure, including bridges, and the establishment of local colleges in larger villages to reduce school dropout rates.
Ouloto-Lamizana urged regional directors and service chiefs to prioritize peace, coexistence, and social cohesion, identifying these as essential conditions for the continued development of the Cavally region. She stressed that these efforts are crucial for the region's overall progress and the well-being of its inhabitants.
Why it mattersResidents of the Cavally region are affected by improvements and ongoing challenges in infrastructure, particularly concerning access to potable water and educational facilities.
Read in ASJ →The weekly 'mardi mardi' market, which began with cosmetic products, now draws crowds and surpasses the traditional Friday market.
Agnibilékrou's Tuesdays have transformed into a major commercial hub with the weekly "mardi mardi" market. Initially a small gathering for cosmetic sales, the event has expanded to include clothing, food, and various other goods, attracting numerous vendors and shoppers. This burgeoning market now rivals, and in some aspects surpasses, the long-established Friday market, becoming a central fixture in the town's economic and social life.
The "mardi mardi" reportedly originated from a single vendor selling affordable beauty products, who built a loyal customer base. The success of this initial venture inspired other traders to join, diversifying the offerings to include apparel, footwear, and local produce. This organic growth has turned a simple sales appointment into a significant weekly attraction, deeply integrated into the community's routines and commercial activities.
Traditionally, Friday was the main market day in Agnibilékrou, a common practice across Côte d’Ivoire to manage competition and facilitate trade. However, the "mardi mardi" has disrupted this order due to its high attendance, product variety, and competitive pricing. Beyond commerce, the market serves as a vital social space for interaction, negotiation, and information exchange, solidifying its importance over the traditional Friday gathering.
Why it mattersThe "mardi mardi" market affects local commerce by drawing significant crowds and offering diverse goods, impacting the traditional market day.
Read in ASJ →The Ivory Coast cacao sector is experiencing significant turbulence, according to a recent union statement.
The autonomous union of public primary education in Ivory Coast (SAEPPCI) is aiming to move past internal issues and address new challenges. The union held its vacation council meeting on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at the FESACI-CG headquarters in Riviera Attoban. The meeting was held under the theme "SAEPPCI: United in the Face of New Challenges."
Separately, the Ivorian cacao sector is navigating a period of intense instability. In a statement released on Thursday, September 4, 2026, Dr. Ahoua Don Mello alerted the public to the dire situation, describing the sector as "on its last legs."
These developments highlight potential economic strains within key sectors of Ivory Coast. The union's focus on internal unity and external challenges, coupled with the specific warning about the cacao industry, suggests a complex economic environment.
Why it mattersThe cacao sector's instability affects farmers and investors involved in its production and trade.
Read in ASJ →The city of Daloa will host entrance exams for the National Institute of Professional Agricultural Training, decentralizing the process from Abidjan.
Daloa has been selected as an examination center for the National Institute of Professional Agricultural Training (INFPA) entrance exams, a move aimed at decentralizing the competition. The exams are scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 10, at the city's industrial vocational high school. This decision follows a meeting between institute officials and young people on September 4, 2026, where the decentralization was announced.
Previously, Abidjan was the sole location for these examinations. The decentralization aims to bring the exams closer to candidates residing in the interior of the country, thereby reducing travel and accommodation challenges. In addition to Daloa, five other centers have been established across the country: Abidjan, Bouaké, San Pedro, Korhogo, and Abengourou.
Online registrations for the 2026 session, which began on July 27, will continue until September 28. Applicants must be Ivorian, between 17 and 35 years old by December 31, 2026, and possess either the Brevet d’études du premier cycle (BEPC) or the baccalauréat (BAC), or their equivalents. A total of 650 places are available, divided between the agricultural technician cycle (300 places for BEPC holders) and the higher agricultural technician cycle (350 places for BAC holders).
Why it mattersYoung Ivorians seeking agricultural training will benefit from reduced travel costs and easier access to examination sites.
Read in ASJ →Ivorian students pursuing higher education abroad can now apply for financial assistance until September 25.
The application period for financial aid for Ivorian students studying outside the country began on September 2, 2026. This initiative aims to support students undertaking academic programs in foreign institutions.
Interested candidates must submit their applications and supporting documents to the Directorate of Orientation and Scholarships. The deadline for all submissions is set for September 25, 2026, allowing a three-week window for applicants.
This program is specifically designed for Ivorian nationals who have secured admission to or are currently enrolled in educational programs outside of Côte d’Ivoire. The Directorate of Orientation and Scholarships manages the allocation of these funds.
Why it mattersIvorian students seeking to study abroad are affected by this announcement as they can now apply for financial aid to cover their educational expenses.
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