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ôte d’Ivoire can also presents an opportunity comfortably for American retailers. When be described a new shopping mall, West Af- as booming. Its Africa’s fastest growing economy rica’s biggest, opened to much near-unstoppa- fanfare in in January ble economic growth – 8.5% in Almost six years after the end of the Second Ivorian Civil War, Côte d’Ivoire last year, among the shopping 2016C – places it as one of West has witnessed a successful and peaceful transition to economic growth, center’s tenants was American Africa’s largest economies. And fast-food giant Burger King, this achievement is all the more bucking regional trends with 8.5% GDP expansion in 2016 which selected the country as notable given that it comes fol- the location for its first restau- lowing over a decade of stagna- election of President Ouattara ate more inclusive growth by “We have started a new man- place on the African continent, rant in the region. tion and conflict. which truly cemented the West smoothing the way to greater date that must mark a new de- Sébastien Kadio-Morokro, Today, political progress Two successive civil wars African country’s bid to put the investment. Tax breaks, cus- parture in the direction of state Chief Executive of local oil firm keeps on coming. In May last marred the start of the 2000s, past behind it and revive its toms duties cuts and even affairs,” President Ouattara, a Petro Ivoire, was named Africa’s year, President Ouattara set and divided the country into a war-scarred economy. compensation in the event of former IMF official himself, Young CEO of the Year, rec- up a committee of experts to rebel-held Muslim north and “Indeed, the 2015 elections social unrest have increased said to gathered media follow- ognizing the potential both of propose a new constitution. a government-held Christian were a major challenge for Côte investor confidence, while a ing his re-election. “The estab- Ivorian firms and their leaders. Its key aims, which included south. The economic destruc- d’Ivoire,” says Hamed Bakayo- focus on infrastructure devel- lishment of a new government As participants from the Ivorian setting up the position of a vice- tion the conflict brought with ko, Minister of the Interior and opment – with power distribu- will have better coherence as a private sector discussed their president, establishing a senate, it is best illustrated by the fact Security. “The country had to tion and transportation at the goal so the government can be role as a catalyst for growth and and incorporating traditional that it even drove out the Afri- show that it has turned the page forefront – lay the groundwork more efficient.” value creation in the country, leaders, was seen by many as can Development Bank (AfDB) of the crisis, that it has turned for the government’s stated aim Confidence is growing President Ouattara highlighted a solid move toward the con- in 2004 from its headquarters the page of violent elections to transform the among the business communi- that “the time has come for us solidation of constitutional in the economic capital Abi- and that it is projecting itself nation into an emerging coun- ty around Côte d’Ivoire’s pros- to industrialize, which will see principles. While the Novem- djan, where it had operated towards a more peaceful and try by 2020. Early indicators pects. The country knocked more jobs being created, and ber 2016 vote was not without since the 1960s. The Second brighter future. What do we are promising – according to from the top spot of to accelerate the growth of the incident – opposition party Ivorian Civil War came to an intend to do to maintain this IMF data, Côte d’Ivoire was Nielsen’s Africa Prospects in- agro-industrial, textile and min- members boycotted the polls end in 2011, and under the climate? Maintain dialogue… the fastest growing economy dicator (APi) overall results in ing sectors.” – over 93% of voters elected in watchful eye of the post-war There is collaboration and ex- of the African continent and Q2 of 2016, and has since held The Ivorian Government favor of the new charter, which President , change on all issues with the the third-fastest in the world on to its top ranking, making is keen to deepen economic the president said would “help the country began to flourish opposition. There is no dog- in 2016, and the AfDB projects it a more stable African invest- cooperation with the United end years of instability”. once more. The return to Abi- matic or fixed position. There GDP growth of 8.3% for 2017. ment destination than the larg- States, which accounted for With the peace and stabil- djan in 2014 of the premier Af- is really the idea of creating a “Côte d’Ivoire has experi- er economies of South Africa $134 million of foreign direct ity that are pre-requisites for rican financial institution was calm environment so that the enced an impressive turn- and Angola. Nielsen analysts investment in the country in economic growth now firmly a “symbol of the renaissance country can develop.” around since 2011, with eco- pointed to its favorable eco- 2014, a 14% increase from in place, the government can of the Ivorian economy after With the peaceful vote seen nomic growth averaging about nomic growth, stable inflation 2013. And while the most fruit- get to work on returning the a decade of recession and a as a big step in consolidating 9% per year. The economic climate and recent elections as ful areas of investment for U.S. country to its former status as symbol of the reconstruction peace and economic con- outlook remains strong. The providing a fertile investment businesses are in oil and gas West Africa’s regional econom- of Ivorian society,” according to fidence in the country, Côte authorities’ 2016-20 National environment. exploration and production, ic and financial powerhouse, AfDB head, Donald Kaberuka, d’Ivoire has proven itself ca- Development Plan (NDP) ap- What’s more, for interna- agricultural commodities and by spurring on the private sec- but it was the 2015 landslide re- pable of an astounding politi- propriately prioritizes inclu- tional investors, opportunities the mining industry, the coun- tor with heavy investments in cal transformation. Today, the sive and sustainable growth, also abound to develop partner- try’s expanding middle class long-neglected infrastructure. country, the world’s largest focusing on structural trans- ships with increasingly strong cocoa producer, is a rare Afri- formation and improving liv- homegrown entrepreneurs. At A UNITED WORLD SUPPLEMENT PRODUCED BY: can bright spot, and while pov- ing standards,” said Dan Ghu- the 2016 edition of the Africa Eva de la Torre, Project Director. Eric Humphery and William Kouton, erty rates remain high despite ra, the IMF’s mission chief for CEO Forum, held in Abidjan Editorial Directors. Fatima Ruiz Moreno, Regional Director. Jonathan surging export rates, President the country following a recent in March, and marking the first Meaney, Chief Editor. Ouattara has pledged to cre- mission. time that the event has taken

Our World Insert is produced by United World. USA Today did not participate in its preparation and is not responsible for its content 2 Monday, February 6, 2017 Distributed by USA TODAY CÔTE D’IVOIRE Cocoa production to lead agricultural sector Côte d’Ivoires agricultural sector is key to its economy and following recent growth, international investment is now being sought to power further development

griculture vast majority of sales prices has more than doubled in the country’s agricultural cultural Investment, PNIA) has become are largely fixed and provid- price to 850 per kilo. growth to deliver structural has pledged more than $3 a mainstay of ing a modicum of predict- “Everyone needs the cocoa reforms, which should en- billion to support the growth Côte d’Ivoire’s ability for state revenues. from Côte d’Ivoire,” says Ms. sure domestic producers can of cash crops such as cocoa, economy con- Mamadou Sangafowa Cou- Touré-Litsé, who adds that take a stake further down the rubber and palm oil, with tributing nearly a quarter libaly, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minis- the improvement in quality production line and move the injection already having toA its GDP, but a revamped ter of Agriculture and Rural has helped the country to into finished products, thus helped create around one strategy looks set to ramp Development, says that such fight off competition from securing a greater share of million new jobs for Côte that up further over the com- reforms are helping to revi- fellow cocoa producers such the profits. d’Ivoire’s population. ing years. talize the sector and power as . “Today, three years “It’s important - and not “The PNIA should gen- The agricultural sector, wider economic growth. or so after the reforms, it is only for cocoa, but in all erate over 2.4 million jobs,” which is dominated by prod- “Everyone knows that ag- the exporters who congratu- agricultural sectors. What says Mr. Coulibaly. “Today ucts such as cocoa, coffee, riculture plays an important late Côte d’Ivoire because we have achieved by put- we are already at one mil- cashew nuts and cotton, ac- role in our country,” he ex- our bet on quality has been ting this sector on a growth lion, and the PNIA should counts for at least 50% of plains. “To revive this sec- achieved. As far as securing trajectory is nothing new. contribute to the food secu- “Today, three years or the West African nation’s tor, we have had two main their income, they are more Côte d’Ivoire has known rity of six to seven million so after the reforms, exports and is estimated to focuses. The first is to make than satisfied.” agricultural growth in the Ivoirians.” it is the exporters who support between 60-70% of reforms that improve the gov- There is little doubt that past. It has never been able Mr. Coulibaly also high- congratulate Côte jobs in the country. ernance of the sector, and the the country’s agricultural to achieve structural trans- lights the success of the d’Ivoire because our Reforms have already been second is to develop a nation- sector has faced consider- formation of this agricultural Agriculture and Animal Re- bet on uality has been made in order to make the al investment program that able challenges over recent economy. This makes it turn sources Salon (SARA), an achieved. As far as market sustainable and en- allows for the return of invest- years but Mr. Coulibaly, from primary/raw to value- international trade fair that securing their income, sure revenues are more sta- ments back into the sector.” whose team has remained added production,” adds Mr. was rebooted after 16 years they are more than ble through the introduction The national investment in place following a reshuf- Coulibaly. in 2015 to attract global in- satisfied of a forward auction market. scheme began in 2012 and fling of the government in “We need finished prod- vestors to the country and The system was introduced Mr. Coulibaly says results to January, says the sector has ucts produced locally be- provide information on op- MASSANDJÉ TOURÉ-LITSÉ in 2011 by the Conseil Café date have been impressive, now regained its place in the cause we have a local market portunities. Managing Director, Conseil Café Cacao Cacao (CCC), which man- with a surge in job creation economy. and a sub-regional market,” “We want to put the accent ages the regulation and de- across the country. Food se- The next focus is on pri- continues the CCC’s Ms. on private investment, this is velopment of the coffee and curity has also improved and vate investment, he says, Touré-Litsé, who adds that why we renewed the SARA cocoa sector and replaced revenues from crops such as and by 2023 the government other international partners platform,” Coulibaly adds. the previous system of spot cashew nuts as well as cocoa wants 50% of its cocoa out- are also in demand to invest While much of the focus “If you take the cashew, be- sales, and sees grinders and are up. put to be processed locally in the sector, following the at trade fairs such as SARA fore the reform, prices were exporters bidding for export “We have enjoyed sus- to ensure further domestic lead of Cémoi. has been on cocoa, it is by set at 100-200 francs. They licenses for 70-80% of the tained agricultural growth growth. “We want Americans to no means the only product were set by the big operators country’s output. and have been able to in- It is an ambitious target, come and work in partner- powering Côte d’Ivoire’s ag- who dictated the market. “When the current presi- crease our food crop out- but certainly at present, the ship with us to come and set ricultural reawakening. Côte But with the reforms, prices dent came into office, he put by 28% in three years,” figures are moving in the up transformation units such d’Ivoire is Africa’s biggest ex- have doubled or trebled and asked for the coffee and co- explains Mr. Coulibaly. right direction. Cocoa pro- as that of Cémoi. U.S. inves- porter of palm oil, a sector that this has had a direct impact coa sectors to be reformed. “We have not only seen our duction jumped to a record tors have their part to play,” is also attracting investment, on rural areas. We are now And, amongst other objec- quantities grow, but quality 1.7 million tons in 2014, up Touré-Litsé adds. “They are while the country’s famous working on capacity build- tives, he guaranteed to se- has improved as well. And from 1.47 million tons in the already here. But they should coffee industry is also being ing for producers and we cure revenue for the produc- more importantly, income 2012/13 season and interna- go a bit further down the revived and Ms. Touré-Litsé are urging that they group ers, so that they would get earned by our producers has tional companies are moving value chain and transform.” says rising prices are helping together to better sell and at least 60% of the market increased fourfold.” into the space. Mr. Coulibaly adds that to entice producers back. organize.” price,” explains Massandjé Mr. Coulibaly adds that ca- ’s Cémoi is invest- despite some apprehension “Today, coffee prices are Mr. Sanogo adds that by Touré-Litsé, the CCC’s Man- shews have risen in price to ing in a chocolate factory when the reforms were first rising, so naturally our pro- grouping cashew growers to- aging Director. 650 francs per kilo (approx. with an annual produc- introduced, Côte d’Ivoire- duction is increasing,” Tou- gether and working together The remaining output is $1.05) against 75 francs be- tion capacity of 5,000 tons, based operators have been ré-Litsé explains, adding that with them throughout the sold on spot, ensuring the fore the reforms, while cocoa but the key will be to use largely satisfied by the posi- the sector has a vital role to production chain, the entire tive impact it has had on the play as the country looks to sector can see an uptick in market. improve life for its citizens. revenues as best practices The CCC chief is also clear Indeed, the improving co- are passed down. Bundling that foreign investors should coa and coffee sectors are sales is also having an impact have confidence in the terri- beginning to deliver real while educating producers tory, and its government, as change to workers, while a about good agricultural they attempt to become an recent tie up between the practices is helping to ensure emerging country by 2020. CCC and Cargill has seen the quality of the cashew, “You have to be coura- them working with local and providing a better bot- geous and get going. Africa farmers to deliver improved tom line for producers. is not at the other end of education and healthcare “We are also developing the world. Africa is not that across the country. other services for local pro- continent of catastrophes, A key aspect to delivering ducers,” Mr. Sanogo explains. it is the continent of beauti- widespread social improve- “We are in the process of cre- ful things. In Africa, there is ment however partly lies in ating a sector development development, it is the con- the price of products, ac- fund and we will improve the tinent on which the rate of cording to Malamine Sano- living conditions by digging growth is greater. It takes go, former Director General wells, building schools and bold businessmen to come at the Cotton and Cashew health centers, while also and invest now.” Council (CCA). providing loans and support- The government is also “The price of products ing diversification, which is supporting extensive invest- has an impact on the qual- very important.” ment into the agricultural ity of life in rural areas. That It is another example of sector to both entice foreign is very important and that how Côte d’Ivoire’s burgeon- direct investors but also to is why these reforms have ing agro-industry and the assist domestic producers. taken place. The objective opportunities it affords both The Programme National of these reforms is to ensure domestically and interna- d’Investissement Agricole that there is an impact,” Mr. tionally are so pivotal to the (National Program for Agri- Sanogo says. country’s future prospects.

Our World Insert is produced by United World. USA Today did not participate in its preparation and is not responsible for its content Distributed by USA TODAY Monday, February 6, 2017 3 CÔTE D’IVOIRE Tourism potential to be unlocked as nation looks to attract 1 million tourists by 2020 Côte d’Ivoire recognies the potential of tourism as a maor driver of growh. And with a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, the nation has the potential to become of Africa’s tour- ism hotspots, welcoming a targeted million visitors a year by 2020

ourism to “The obective is to go leisure, not viewed as an olive coleus monkey, and tourist successes of Moroc- Côte d’Ivoire from around 300,000 industry that needed to be the Jentink’s Duiker, leop- co and South Africa says Mr. is enjoying a tourists in 202 to developed and nurtured as ards and chimpanzees also Somet. comeback with million tourists in 2020. part of a job creation plan make the list. Tai Park was “It’s about giving a promi- growth figures It’s an ambitious goal that or a stimulus for economic declared a World Heritage nent role to the national that are rivaling those of co- reuires substantial work, growth. site in 1982. office for tourism,” he says. coa production. much of which is being “It was a difficult chal- Protected areas and game “We are in partnership T done right now. It’s not hard to imagine lenge,” he says. “But nec- reserves of Côte d’Ivoire of- with the tourism office of why, the breathtaking land- essary to incorporate and fer some of the most exciting Morocco and we regularly scapes include miles of pris- ROGER KACOU, work within accepted in- glimpses of untamed nature share our experiences.” tine beaches, thousands of Former Minister of Tourism ternational norms to at- through hiking and sightsee- Government officials are acres of rain forest, and na- tract investment dollars. ing opportunities. encouraged by the initia- tional parks filled with fas- Investment from the World One of the jewels of its tives that are taking root cinating flora and wildlife. has improved dramatically Bank has helped to build and tourism industry could be and helping to drive traffic. Years of conflict and but it is not yet at zero. We renovate existing hotels.” the beach resorts of Assinie Visitors to Abidjan airport stagnation though have must be sure to receive tour- Tourism will help diversify and the Grand Bassam, pop- have grown from 600,000 to ists in the best condition so the country’s economy away ular weekend retreats for 1.4 million since 2014. tarnished its appeal, but in “Today Ivorians are they can enjoy everything from natural resources. The city dwellers in the capitol of That number is expected recent years, the return of starting to be conscious we have to offer.” government has steadily ex- Abidjan, which has its own to grow as the country seeks political stability has gov- of the fact that Jean Marie Somet who be- panded its facilities to tour- window to nature through to implement direct airline ernment leaders seeking to tourism is the number gan as a consultant and now ists. Resort lodgings have lagoons and fauna that wind links to the United States. recapture its allure for tour- one industry and leads the national office for been popping up along the their way around concrete Mr. Somet says the coun- ists and natives alike. employer in the world. tourism says it was clear to coastline and the capital city and steel skyscrapers. try is developing attractions “The objective is to go They’re embracing it him that tourism had great of Abidjan, boasts numer- Social media photos show such as golf resorts, fish- from around 300,000 tour- as an industry we’re untapped potential for the ous hotels including interna- how easily Ivorians can slip ing expeditions and agri- ists in 2012 to 1 million tour- working to make country and he has been tional chains such as Novatel from the hustle and bustle cultural ventures to appeal ists in 2020,” says the former them understand any working with leaders to de- and Sofitel. of its capital to neighboring to the American spirit for Minister of Tourism, Roger investment in tourism is velop the segment, achiev- “Today Ivorians are start- Assinie and Grand Bassam adventure and exploration. Kacou, who was replaced beneficial and will pay ing remarkable results in just ing to be conscious of the where beach resorts make He concedes that the by Siandou Fofana in Janu- off within five to ten a few years. fact that [tourism] is the for idyllic weekend retreats. country still has much ary following a cabinet re- years shuffle. “It’s an ambitious “We didn’t have any eco- number one industry and “We realized that while work to do, but points to employer in the world,” reviewing our data, we had its boundless potential and goal that requires substan- nomic plans for tourism,” JEAN MARIE SOMET, 706,000 Ivorian tourists, offers a visionary plan to tial work, much of which is says Mr. Somet. “The coun- adds Mr. Somet. “They’re Managing Director, Cote D’Ivoire Tourism being done right now.” try hadn’t evolved for 10 embracing it as an industry; people traveling within the expand and capitalize on Upon replacing Mr. Kacou years. Hotel establishments we’re working to make them country,” says Mr. Somet. the growing interest in ag- at the Ministry of Tourism, had all but disappeared.” understand any investment “We interpreted that as a ritourism. Mr. Fofana said he wants Since his tenure began, in tourism is beneficial and good sign that stability and “We are the leading pro- great experience and they tourism to be “the third figures for tourism have will pay off within five to security is firmly in place, ducer of cocoa beans in Af- can leave with a kilogram economic pole, and make risen dramatically, the seg- ten years.” giving people within the rica,” he affirms. “We can of coffee beans or chocolate this a ministry of tourist in- ment’s contribution to GDP This tropical paradise is country the confidence to become a cocoa destination that will help them savor the frastructure, rather than a has grown from less than 1% making significant strides in travel within the country.” just like Europe is a destina- memory.” ministry of industry.” to 4.8% in just two years. all areas of its economy. It is It was also important data tion for great wine.” While Côte d’Ivoire is This is possible, he added, Mr. Somet credits gov- updating its infrastructure to focus on business trav- He is calling for synergis- well known for its produc- provided that the work is ernment initiatives that and modernizing its com- elers. The proximity of the tic relationships with the tion of cocoa, Mr. Somet done “in a climate of trust, include establishing a legal munications and transpor- beach to the city is a key sell- country’s Ministry of Ag- says there’s an even more mutual respect and above all and regulatory framework tation systems while main- ing point being marketed to riculture and the Council compelling reason to visit. commitment.” for the industry and instal- taining its cultural identity. businessmen to encourage for Coffee and Cacao Pro- Americans will find an af- Mr. Kacou acknowledges ing a team of knowledge- The Tai National Park travel within the country. duction to help develop the finity to the diversity and the country’s troubled his- able and dynamic profes- in the south of the coun- “Today, tourism is no lon- Côte d’Ivoire as a destina- tolerance that Ivorians take tory and says its leaders are sionals eager to resuscitate try features one of the last ger something that we can tion for exploring cocoa pride in. making security a top prior- the industry. It started with and largest areas of pristine ignore, we want to recognize vintages. “We are hospitable and ity in its plan to reinvigorate changing people’s cultural rainforest in West Africa. Its the value that visitors can “I want Americans and generous people,” he said, the industry. attitudes toward tourism. abundance of flora and fau- bring to Côte d’Ivoire, and other foreign visitors to noting that the coun- “We are just coming out Tourism in the Côte d’Ivoire na is home to five mammal we are able to accommodate come experience the har- try boasts over 60 ethnic of a period of political cri- was not viewed through the species on the threatened them.” vest of cocoa just like peo- groups. “And we have this sis,” the former minister ex- same lens, in fact culturally, species list, including the Côte d’Ivoire has been ple want to enjoy a good warmth that makes you plains. “The level of security tourism was associated with pygmy hippocampus, the learning from the African wine harvest. It would be a want to stay.”

Our World Insert is produced by United World. USA Today did not participate in its preparation and is not responsible for its content 4 Monday, February 6, 2017 Distributed by USA TODAY CÔTE D’IVOIRE Four-fold capacity increase and international collaborations raise Abidjan Port’s competitiveness

Heavy investment in infra- structure in and around the Port of Abidjan has raised its container capacity and ongoing developments are making it a highly attractive maritime gateway for trad- ers, as well as a conduit for wider economic prosperity

ôte d’Ivoire’s economic strategies over “The port has an the past five important role in the years have economy, the health of seen the country’s pros- the country depends Cperity surge and there are on the Port of Abidjan. now plans to capitalize on We will also have five this by improving not just hectares of industrial domestic trade but also in- space that will allow ternational exports. for refrigeration, A key factor in this plan is and this all provides the increasingly influential employment. Plus, we port at Abidjan, once one of also want to create an the African country’s most ore terminal, because important industrial links. mining in Côte d’Ivoire Although the impact of the is set to grow” political and military crisis that hit the country impact- HIEN YACOUBA SIE, ed operations at the port, Managing Director, Abidjan Port Authority significant investments are now being made that are Photo: Romain Seaf once again enabling Côte d’Ivoire government to put the facility back on the re- limit is being raised four- rapid growth, established management processes,” trade body for the industry. With such development, gional map. fold to ships with capacity ports – such as Tema in Mr. Sie explains. Compari- One of its key initiatives the potential of tourism to Hien Yacouba Sie, Man- for 16,000 containers. Ghana and Dakar in Sen- sons between both the tech- has been to focus on the the country’s economy is aging Director of Abidjan “We are working to ac- egal – are set to grow fur- nical and financial elements creation of so-called smart also coming more clearly Port Authority, is quick commodate all the ships ther, but Mr. Sie says “the of each country’s respec- city harbors that integrate into focus. The hospitality to point out the historical that come to the coast economic prosperity of tive port operations help efficient port operations sector is growing rapidly importance of the port, al- with a project on the Vridi Côte d’Ivoire means that to generate improvements, with the wider economic in Côte d’Ivoire but Mr. Sie though he also admits that Canal,” Mr. Sie says. Other Abidjan is particularly well although the importance and social communities says under capacity is hold- it has suffered from a lack of improvements include the placed on both a domestic of an efficient, functioning around it. ing back further growth – investment in more recent construction of a second and global front.” sector has far greater re- “Many cities have a lot of a situation that the Port years. “During the 1980s the container terminal that will “When a state creates a percussions for the wider poor people and many of of Abidjan could help to state’s resources, which de- ratchet up Abidjan’s con- port in the first place, it Ivorian economy. them tend to go to the port improve. “The potential is clined following the drop tainer capacity. Construc- is for its economy,” he ex- “For economies, it is im- area to get by,” Mr. Sie says. enormous. There are plenty in the cost of raw materials tion began in 2015 and will plains. “We need the port portant that the ports are “That creates significant of investments in the sector and other socio-political take almost 4 years to com- to grow to accommodate not too expensive because pressure on the ports and and that will attract peo- problems, meant that the plete. the needs of the economy when they are, it is the can lead to insecurity and ple,” he continues, adding port suffered from a lack Further upgrades of the in terms of exports and im- consumer who pays, and fragility issues surround- that there are proposals to of investment,” he explains. port’s related infrastructure ports. This is the principal in our country the popu- ing the goods that are get- create a cruise terminal. The result was that ex- will also provide more ef- challenge, and the Port of lation’s purchasing power ting shipped. If we do not The main efforts at pres- porters from countries ficient operations, particu- Abidjan was created pri- is not great,” says Mr. Sie. manage the situation it can ent, however, are directed that may once have used larly improving traffic flows marily for that. And as the “When there is inflation in become a weakness.” towards developing Abi- the Abidjan facility shift- and expanding the industri- economy is growing at al- terms of cost, it inevitably Issues such as the theft of djan port’s facilities for ed their trade to ports in al space around the facility most 10% per year, there is leads to impoverishment. goods within the confines both domestic and global neighboring countries such itself. Modern fishing ter- a pressure for us to grow be- The policy of the ports can of ports is an Africa-wide trade – particularly with as Ghana, and . minals are being developed cause since the 1980s there help to ensure that this does problem, Mr. Sie adds, and major economies such as The return to prosperity in through the issuance of a has been little investment.” not happen. the ramifications affect not the U.S. Links between the Côte d’Ivoire, however, has 29-billion- (approx. Mr. Sie adds that Abidjan “At the same time the just the facility itself, which world’s biggest economic in more recent years helped $47 million) bond and the will also be able to accom- ports are the service deliv- has to cover the costs, but powerhouse and Côte to prompt growing interest importance of a port with modate more vessels than its ery sites and that is a cost. also operators who face d’Ivoire have been develop- in Abidjan’s facilities that wide-ranging capabilities near competitors and says It brings back the financing higher insurance premi- ing rapidly over the years, has been further bolstered will benefit the country on cooperation with Angola of political problems. There ums, for example. manifested most recently in by a sustained period of a variety of levels, according is helping both countries are ports where states have While some European the extension of the African political stability and the to Mr. Sie. to escape from the ravages funding, where the state countries have over recent Growth and Opportunity growing economic fortunes “The most important in- of their respective conflicts has subsidies and where the years used their own re- Act to 2025. It provides far of the country. dustrial zone will be in the and emerge economically state does not intervene. All sources and benefits from greater market access for “We have an economy port area and many jobs will buoyant. Côte d’Ivoire’s these (different models) can EU programs to transform qualifying countries in the that is very strong and when be created there,” he says. well-educated workforce is have repercussions.” some of the continent’s re- sub-Saharan region, and calm returned after the ar- “The port has an impor- a key asset for the country The key, he adds, is that gional ports, countries such means the Port of Abidjan rival of President Ouattara, tant role in the economy, while Angola’s more recent all the players – from port as Côte d’Ivoire find financ- is set to become a lynchpin we were able to regain our the health of the country economic wealth derived authorities to private com- ing harder to come by. The in the future growth for its position and catch up,” depends on the Port of Abi- from oil reserves is enabling panies, the state and sub- key is to create synergies exporters. says Mr. Sie. Transport in- djan. both countries to mutually sidized operators – must between both towns and Substantial challenges frastructure, particularly “We will also have five benefit. work to together to some their respective ports, Mr. remain, Mr. Sie adds, not road and rail links, were hectares of industrial space Wider strategic relation- extent to ensure a greater Sie explains, with cash flows least ensuring that the pas- improved and the port it- that will allow for refrigera- ships are also benefiting good for all. of both outgoing taxes and sage of American ships is self is now in the process tion, and this all provides Côte d’Ivoire and its Abi- “This is a world where incoming financial support secure, and to that end U.S. of being renovated to allow employment. Plus, we also djan port facility in particu- everyone defends his in- being created to provide a shipping experts visit the ships from across the world want to create an ore termi- lar, such as with the Port terests, but our interests better environment that can country several times each to dock. nal, because mining in Côte Management Association are interdependent. If each provide economic prosper- year to provide guidance “One of the most impor- d’Ivoire is set to grow.” of West and Central Af- stifles the other, he cannot ity for both parties. and advice. With such in- tant projects is the ability While Mr. Sie has great rica, which is designed to escape,” adds Mr. Sie. Côte d’Ivoire is also set to ternational expertise, in ad- to accommodate larger ves- ambitions for the Port of encourage strong coopera- Indeed, the port author- benefit from investments in dition to local investment sels,” says Mr. Sie. Previous- Abidjan, there is no doubt- tion with similar facilities ity’s general director is technological developments, and regional cooperation, ly, ships carrying more than ing that it faces intense across the region and im- perhaps more aware than which are helping to improve the Port of Abidjan aims 4,000 containers could not competition as neighboring prove the competitiveness most of the importance of operations and increase the to deliver greater prosper- enter because of the depth countries vie for dominance of the entire sector. cooperation, as he is also port’s efficiency, with the ity for Côte d’Ivoire and a of local channels, but as of the international ship- “There is a will amongst vice-president of the In- first step being to computer- gateway for trade that can part of the widespread in- ping trade. With countries many African ports in the ternational Association of ize all aspects of the Abidjan benefit the entire sub-Saha- vestment in the facility this in the region experiencing region to improve port Ports and Harbors, a global facility’s operations. ran region.

Our World Insert is produced by United World. USA Today did not participate in its preparation and is not responsible for its content Distributed by USA TODAY Monday, February 6, 2017 5 CÔTE D’IVOIRE Beyond basics: Côte d’Ivoire’s new drive for trade and industry

A major African industrial the Ivorian government has take-up on both the domestic express compassion and em- is growing at 9% on average, and trading hub for many put in place a number of ini- front – as awareness grows of pathy, became the name of an and this means that the in- centuries, Côte d’Ivoire tiatives to increase the share its potential to help enhance insurance product covering vestment rate is very high. now seeks to upgrade its of the industrial sector in the productivity for exporters by death and funeral expenses. There are many companies trade routes and move up national economy to 40%, up protecting them from risks, This helped La Loyale’s brand who want the land. The three the value chain, managing from about 30% in 2011. With providing a foundation for positioning as a caring local areas are practically full, so we risks by changing cultural an investment of 152 billion economic growth – and on firm. “The original meaning had to create a new one.” This attitudes around the impor- francs (approx. $250 million), the international front, as is about people empathizing new site, the PK24, stretches tance of insurance the National Industrial Re- the ever-greater numbers of with your problems,” says over 950 hectares and is being structuring and Upgrading foreign investors who enter Mr. Abouo. Even the name developed progressively in Program, known by its French the country seek local risk of the company itself, “Loyale”, partnership with the private ollowing inde- acronym PNRMN, will run mitigation for their activities. denotes loyalty between the sector to create a modern in- pendence in 1960, until 2018, promoting greater La Loyale Group, a local company and its clients. “For dustrial zone. New tenants Côte d’Ivoire man- competitiveness, increased insurance firm, is part of this us, insurance is similar to soli- will include Brassivoire, a ufactured little productivity and more value change. It is a member of the darity, because the African beer manufacturer formed by more than timber addition for Ivorian industrial Globus Network, which in- person and solidarity go to- a joint partnership between by-products, textiles, and enterprises. cludes together 40 members gether. That is to say that Af- Dutch firm Heineken and “We realized that food processed from local ag- With this program, hopes across 50 countries, and its ricans do not stay indifferent multinational conglomerate large investors invest F everywhere: Côte ricultural products. Follow- are high that the country will financial rating from special- when faced with a problem. CFAO. ing decades of industrializa- be able to upgrade its export ized firm Bloomfield Invest- They will look for a way to Key to moving up the value d’Ivoire, , tion, the country’s energy, oil activity from raw materials ment allows it to approach contribute and overcome it,” chain is ensuring that goods Benin, Congo, etc. They and gas processing, mining, – unprocessed coffee, cocoa, foreign clients who invest Mr. Abouo says. and products can be moved need insurance in order manufacturing and food pro- cashew, palm oil, cotton and not only in Côte d’Ivoire, but Today, La Loyale has set quickly and efficiently out of to accompany their cessing activities now make rubber – to intermediate and across the region. its sights on accompanying the country, which Colonel investment. We provide up a vibrant secondary sec- finished products with part- “We realized that large in- the investors coming to Côte Major Issa Coulibaly, Man- that whole service tor which is posting annual ners such as the U.S., which vestors invest everywhere: d’Ivoire, offering a power- aging Director of the coun- through Globus. We growth rates of around 13%. is currently its main export Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, ful combination of on-the- try’s General Directorate of have a representative in As part of its goal to trans- destination receiving 8.5% of Benin, Congo, etc. They need ground market knowledge Customs, has made a priority. each country so investors form the country into an total Ivoirian goods, valued at insurance in order to accom- and a globalized network of “Our objective is to improve no longer need to move. emerging economy by 2020, an annual $1.25 billion. pany their investment. We intermediaries to smooth the the business climate in Côte This saves them not only “We have excellent rela- provide that whole service path for new investment proj- d’Ivoire,” he says. “We want time but also money” tions with the U.S.,” says through Globus. We have a ects. “Unlike other insurance to have a modern, model and Souleymane Diarrassouba, representative in each coun- companies who simply make well-performing customs “Unlike other insurance Minister of Commerce. “For try so investors no longer need proposals, La Loyale offers framework. If a country has companies who simply us, it’s about trading more to move. This saves them not its clients more. We open up good customs, investors have make proposals, La value-added products than only time but also money,” other possibilities with part- a regulatory and protective Loyale offers its clients primary materials.” says Bernard Asso Abouo, ners that clients could not organ to take care of them.” more. We open up other In energy and mining alone, the company’s CEO. While have found elsewhere. With He points to the country’s so- possibilities with partners the Ivorian government has gaining business overseas has this offering, the entrepre- called single point of foreign that clients could not estimated that there are $27 been relatively straightfor- neur or the client is inevitably trade, which is currently un- have found elsewhere. billion worth of investment ward for the firm, with Abouo left happy,” adds Abouo. der development. A one-stop With this offering, the opportunities across almost noting that his company rep- For Jean-Claude Brou, shop for commerce, it will entrepreneur or the 200 industrial projects, resentatives have travelled to Minister of Industry and centralize all business op- client is inevitably left which it hopes will position the U.S. to meet with poten- Mining, the growing focus erations and enable goods to happy” “Our objective is to the country as an exporter tial investors even prior to on new investors and value be cleared through customs improve the business of power and commodities them landing in Côte d’Ivoire, addition means finding more without cumbersome paper- “For us, insurance is climate in Côte d’Ivoire. to the entire region, as well convincing local Ivorians of space for facilities. “There work. “It’s about ensuring that similar to solidarity, We want to have a as meeting growing demand the benefits of insurance has are three industrial areas in investors do not waste their because the African modern, model and at home. In agro-produc- meant taking a slightly more Abidjan: Vridi, Koumassi time. At the airport, the con- person and solidarity well-performing customs tion, the country, already the innovative approach. “When and Yopougon. They are trol must be fluid. Depending go together. That is to framework. If a country world’s biggest cocoa produc- we created La Loyale, our pri- substantially saturated,” he on the behavior of the cus- say that Africans do not has good customs, er, plans to process at least ority was to create a culture says. Indeed, rental fees have toms at the airport, the inves- stay indifferent when investors have a regulatory 50% of its cocoa beans within of insurance, to make Ivori- remained unchanged since tor may want to extend his faced with a problem. and protective organ to the country by 2020, adding ans understand insurance,” the zones’ establishment in visit to deepen his knowledge He will look for a take care of them” value to its cash crop. says Mr. Abouo. The com- 1972, allowing tenants to pay of the country and invest, or way to contribute and The private sector has an pany did this by translating some of the region’s lowest immediately get back on a overcome it” COLONEL MAJOR ISSA COULIBALY, important role to play in keep- the concepts of insurance to fees, with a cost per square plane. This is why we insist Managing Director, General Directorate ing the supply chain moving, everyday language. The local meter of between 0.10 and on the respect of ethics and BERNARD ASSO ABOUO, of Customs with insurance seeing greater word “Yako”, which is used to 0.25 . “Our economy our duty to investors.” CEO, La Loyale Group Bridging the digital divide With its political house now in order, the Ivorian government seeks to harness the potential of ICT for development, setting out a genuine digital strategy as an essential component of the country’s economic growth

“A lot of activities and One such initiative is the digiti- al Telecommunication Union. goods are still currently zation of over 99% of the countries’ With 119 mobile subscriptions paid in cash, with all the secondary school registration fee per 100 people, the West African risks that this entails. The payments. “The initiative is both nation is ahead of the U.S. and idea is to then really bring public and private, as public in- Germany, and the fact that most them progressively to stitutions need private operators Ivorians carry a mobile means mobile money” to implement this project. Obvi- banks, financial institutions and ously, it is the kind of collaboration fintech providers can work on BRUNO NABAGNE KONE, we want to extend to many other banking the country’s unbanked Minister of Communication, Digital areas, such as agriculture, security population. Economy and the Post and justice,” said Bruno Nabagne “A lot of activities and goods are Kone, the country’s Minister of still currently paid in cash, with he introduction Communication, Digital Econo- all the risks that this entails. The of high-speed my and the Post, in a recent inter- idea is to then really bring them fiber-optic cable view with the GSMA Foundation. progressively to mobile money,” by the private sec- But there is still a way to go be- said Minister Kone to the GSMA tor, a government fore everyone is online. Accord- Foundation. He calls for further program to bring the internet to ing to World Bank data, Côte public-private collaboration for everyT home, and the ongoing pro- d’Ivoire internet penetration is payment streams to be digitized liferation of both mobile money at 21%, compared to 75% in the in a similar manner, to imple- and e-governance initiatives are United States and below the 22% ment digital alternatives for salary all placing Côte d’Ivoire firmly sub-Saharan Africa average. This payments and even international among Africa’s digital innovators. presents an enormous opportu- remittances. The country’s telecommuni- nity to increase the connectivity As ever, with new develop- cations and ICT regulatory body, of Ivoirian citizens, and one which ments come security concerns, known by its French-language operator Orange Côte d’Ivoire but ARTCI is moving quickly to acronym ARTCI, has led the Telecom is already seeking to ad- ensure that the digital revolution charge, and its director general, dress, via a huge program to roll does not become a new frontier Bile Diéméléou, views ICT as out fiber optic. for crime. “Everyone is vigilant the enabler of growth across To ensure everyone can ben- today,” says Mr. Diéméléou. “We the economy. “Even prior to his efit from the country’s increasing cannot accept cybercriminals in re-election, President Alassane digital linkages with the outside Côte d’Ivoire. We have to reassure Ouattara had already begun to world, the government’s recently the consumer and the world that implement his development pro- launched “One citizen, one com- we have a cyberspace that is well gram, in which we played and puter + an internet connection” controlled and well managed.” continue to play a part. Every- project aims to provide half a Thus far, international confi- thing he has implemented for million households with either a dence in the Ivorian ICT sector the moment has boosted growth. laptop computer or tablet plus an appears almost limitless. “There And our sector has played an internet connection subscription, are many who come to take in- important role in this. We always subsidized by the state. spiration from our model,” says say that all of the development These initiatives are bearing Mr. Diéméléou. U.S. tech giant sectors of the country develop fruit. Between 2015 and 2016, the Microsoft chose the country for as a result of ICT.” The Ouattara country jumped from 115th to the opening of the second-largest administration has also turned 106th place in the World Econom- office in its West and Central Af- on its head the image of govern- ic Forum’s Networked Readiness rica region, and has trained thou- ment ministers being somewhat Index, a key indicator of how well sands of young Ivoirians in the technophobic. “Today, when a country uses information and digital economy through its Build people go to the ministerial communications technologies to Your Business program. Mean- council meetings, they go with boost the health of its economy. while, the organizers of Smart a tablet when before, there was “After 2020, we will see a Côte City Africa, a conference bringing tons of paper. The President of d’Ivoire that will increase in pop- together the continent’s ICT en- the Republic is a man of emails, ulation and we will have a very trepreneurs and ministers, chose computers and the internet,” visible digital economy and large the Ivorian economic capital adds Mr. Diéméléou. And this consumption. We will see the Abidjan for its inaugural edition tech-focused government isn’t ICT sector taking on more im- in March 2017. This event, en- stopping there, with Mr. Diémé- portance, and we will become a dorsed by Minister Kone, is seen léou pointing to e-commerce, regional hub,” says Mr. Diéméléou. as the culmination of a number e-health and even e-agriculture In mobile penetration, Côte of developments which are fast initiatives that are gradually d’Ivoire is among the world’s lead- positioning Côte d’Ivoire as West transforming the country. ers, according to the Internation- Africa’s most exciting tech hub.

Our World Insert is produced by United World. USA Today did not participate in its preparation and is not responsible for its content 6 Monday, February 6, 2017 Distributed by USA TODAY CÔTE D’IVOIRE Foreign investments in mining, oil and gas to drive future growth Amara Mining will invest around $430 million to build one of the continent’s largest gold mines at Yaoure, while Exxon Mobil returns to the country after a 32-year absence, with a planned $400 million investment in exploring the nation’s vast potential oil wealth

ocated between d’Ivoire to expand in this that for many decades the the revised code allows the the same time the country “In order to create and Ghana sector. But after a decade- real force behind the econ- communities to benefit from is carefully monitoring the the conditions for in the northwest long Civil War that ended in omy has been agriculture, the output from this, provid- standard of all its industrial increased investment corner of Africa, 2011 and had all but crippled with Côte d’Ivoire holding ing a compass for investors, and agricultural products in the sector it was the predominantly the economy – further bur- its position as the world’s giving clear and specific ref- in line with a 2013 quality absolutely necessary to agricultural Côte d’Ivoire, dened by embargoes placed largest cocoa producer and erences to environmental control ruling. review the mining code. Lwith its population of 24 on the country in 2005 by coffee and palm oil exports constraints, the dimensions The operators require million, is now also emerg- the UN which have only re- continuing to flourish. The related to community de- Oil and gas investments a good return that ing as one of the continent’s cently been lifted – things mining industry, in turn, was velopment and governance In spite of a series of re- provides an adequate leading players in mining and are finally beginning to look given a real boost with the framework.” cent severe problems, Côte fiscal income for mining in oil and gas production. To- brighter. In 2014, 140 ex- appearance of the revised The Chamber of Com- d’Ivoire’s oil and gas industry activity. It has to be an gether, these two industries ploration permits and 11 2014 Mining Code. “In or- merce’s role, meanwhile, is is also now tentatively mov- economic activity, and represent 25% of the coun- production licenses were der to create the conditions seen by Mr. Brou as a part- ing ahead. Its guiding hand is the revised code allows try’s GDP though they are issued. Gold, a major min- for increased investment in nership between the state the Petroci company, found- the communities to still in their infancy, relatively ing product, rose from 14 the sector it was absolutely and operators, aimed at ed in 1972 and re-structured benefit from the output speaking, and production tons in 2012 to 25 tons in necessary to review this strengthening relationships 23 years later into Petroci from this, providing a levels are modest – more on late 2015. code,” Mr. Brou explains. with all investors. “This de- Holding, with three subsid- compass for investors, a par with and Burkina Jean-Claude Brou, the “The operators require a partment serves as a cru- iaries: Petroci Exploration- giving clear and Faso than with big guns like country’s Minister of Indus- good return that provides cible for the promotion and Production which handles specific references South Africa and Zambia. try and Mining, has evalu- an adequate fiscal income development of the sector,” upstream gas and oil activi- to environmental Recent events have ated the current situation in for mining activity. It has to he observes.” It also plays a ties; Petroci Gaz, which is constraints, the not made it easy for Côte this area. He acknowledges be an economic activity, and role in job creation and is responsible for the natu- dimensions related ral gas sector; and Petroci to community “From a modest Industries-Services which development production of around manages all other related and governance 36,600 barrels a services. Currently Petroci framework” day we now expect offers up to 49% interest to increase this to to private sector investors. JEAN-CLAUDE BROU, 100,000 and then It also covers the develop- Minister of Industry and Mining double that figure ment and maintenance of by the end of 2020, the main data base for the thanks mainly to country’s oil assets. company acquire several resources that have The greatest of Petroci’s service stations. been discovered in our setbacks was a 75% loss Mr. Diaby sees Petroci as territorial waters” of revenues in 2015 when performing an important global oil prices plunged in social and economic role for IBRAHIMA DIABY, just two years (2014-2015) the country during the next Managing Director, Petroci from around $110 a barrel half decade. “One of our to just $30 a barrel. To ward key projects is the future off total financial disaster acquisition of an offshore especially beneficial for ag- and safeguard its future the gas field, which will pro- riculture because it engages company accordingly agreed vide a significant supply of in added-value transforma- to sell its petrol distribution electricity to the country’s tion. Agribusiness is very network to Puma Energy, a business centers.” His strat- important. The Chamber of Swiss-based private firm. As egy is to concentrate on the Commerce acts as a support a prelude to this, and follow- exploration and production to other sectors as well.” ing the recommendations of petroleum and maintain The country boasts a rich of a thorough audit, 50 of the presence of petroleum and lucrative abundance of Petroci’s 600 employees oriented companies in off minerals that include iron, were made redundant and shore activities. “These nickel and gold – “more a further 150 are expected measures don’t stem from gold, in fact, than neighbor- to follow. Indignant workers me,” he’s careful to explain, ing Ghana and Mali,” Mr. recently launched a three- “but from the recommenda- Brou is quick to point out. day strike protest at these tions of a variety of different “Our iron reserves total 4 radical steps, but from the official audits carried out in billion tons,” he adds, “and management’s viewpoint 2013 and 2014.” we have nearly 260 million of their tactics have paid off: Mr. Diaby also aims to re- laterite nickel and 60 million projected earnings have now launch natural gas projects tons of copper nickel.” Dia- reached $30 million, a figure with a view to continuing mond mining is also a major that’s expected to put Pet- the supply of thermic cen- industry in Côte d’Ivoire and roci back on the right track ters some of which - such a recently successful audit economically. as those of Contourglobal into this sphere of opera- The newly streamlined in- and Starenergie - are ei- tions ensured integration dustry has further ambitions ther already in operation into the Kimberley Process to boost its output, says or about to be set up. Other which has greatly benefited managing director, Ibrahima companies, including RAK progress in extracting the Diaby. “From a modest pro- and Foxtrot, are also cur- much-treasured mineral. duction of around 36,600 rently involved in market- Overall, it’s gold that’s barrels a day we now expect ing Côte d’Ivoire petro- proving one of the most po- to increase this to 100,000 leum products, and, most tentially progressive areas, and then double that figure significantly, two U.S. gi- and over the next two years by the end of 2020, thanks ants, Anadarko and Exxon one of several interested mainly to resources that Mobil are about to invest international companies, have been discovered in our $30 million and $400 mil- Amara Mining, is sched- territorial waters.” lion, respectively, in key oil uled to invest around $430 Such an achievement projects for which produc- million in building one of would make Côte d’Ivoire a tive partnership contracts the continent’s largest gold viable competitor to neigh- (CPPs) have already been mines at Yaoure, where boring Ghana who are aim- signed. Anadarko will op- they expect to extract over ing at an output of 250,00 erate in an area of 1,028 325,000 ounces a year (spot barrels by 2021. He’s opti- kilometers in deep waters gold is currently trading at mistic about the company’s south of Abidjan. Exxon, around $1,200 an ounce). future despite the recent making a welcome return Mr. Brou hopes that U.S.- withdrawal of their power- to the Côte d’Ivoire after a Ivorian business relations, in ful Russian partner Lukoil, 32-year absence, is provid- particular, will continue to and feels the government’s ing an investment to cover expand as the country han- decision to privatize Pet- initial exploratory periods dles its international deal- roci will help it regain its in various areas. These ings with a new dynamism former stature thanks to ambitious new projects all and strengthens its bonds the Puma Energy interven- augur well for Petroci and with all its investors. At tion which has helped the the country’s future.

Our World Insert is produced by United World. USA Today did not participate in its preparation and is not responsible for its content