Sixty-six years after gaining independence, Côte d’Ivoire stands at a pivotal moment in its history. On this milestone anniversary, the Movement of Future Forces, led by Yaya Fofana, delivers a powerful message to the nation’s youth, urging them to prioritize work, training, discipline, and rigor as the foundation for personal and collective progress.

Honoring the legacy of national builders

The 7th of August marks a date of deep significance for all Ivorians. In 1960, under the visionary leadership of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Côte d’Ivoire broke free from colonial rule and embarked on a journey of sovereignty and nation-building. Today, we honor the courage of those who laid the groundwork for our republic and the sacrifices of our Defense and Security Forces, who continue to protect peace, unity, and development across the nation.

The MFA pays tribute to the memory of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny and President Henri Konan Bédié, whose leadership shaped the foundations of modern Côte d’Ivoire. Special recognition is given to the soldiers who have fallen defending the nation against terrorism in the north and to the professionalism displayed during the 2025 electoral process.

Yopougon as a symbol of national unity

The decision to host this year’s independence celebrations in Yopougon carries profound meaning. It reflects a commitment to the idea that Côte d’Ivoire has no divided territories—no regions to conquer or punish. From Yopougon to Daloa, Korhogo to San-Pédro, and Odienné to Bondoukou, the nation’s heartbeat is one and indivisible.

From political independence to economic sovereignty

The independence achieved in 1960 was a political triumph. Now, the challenge of the 21st century is to secure real sovereignty—economic, monetary, agricultural, energy, industrial, digital, and cultural. The MFA outlines a clear path forward: achieving 50% local processing of cocoa and 40% of cashew nuts by 2030 through a robust national industrial plan. Digital and media sovereignty are equally critical, ensuring that Côte d’Ivoire’s narrative is shaped within its own borders.

Making growth tangible for every Ivorian

While macroeconomic progress is commendable, the MFA emphasizes that true success is measured not in statistics but in tangible improvements in daily life. Access to affordable housing, dignified employment, quality education, healthcare, and increased purchasing power are essential. The Movement calls for 200,000 affordable homes by 2030, the creation of 500,000 formal jobs for youth under 35 in the next five years, and the formalization of the informal sector, which sustains eight out of ten Ivorians. A dedicated Ministry for Small and Medium Enterprises is also proposed to strengthen this vital segment of the economy.

Empowering the next generation

The December 2025 inauguration of the President marked a commitment to generational transmission. The MFA embraces this vision with optimism and readiness to contribute. Concrete steps include opening leadership roles to professionals trained since 2011, increasing women’s representation in decision-making, and systematically preparing the next generation of leaders. The Movement also advocates for a reformed Electoral Commission, structured on the principle of three equal components—administration, political parties, and civil society—to ensure transparent and peaceful elections.

Reaffirming the unifying spirit of Houphouëtism

“True Houphouëtism does not divide,” declares the MFA. It unites, listens, forgives, and builds. The diverse ethnic groups of Côte d’Ivoire—Malinkés, Dioulas, Sénoufos, Baoulés, Bétés, Agnis, Attiés, Guérés, Peulhs, Krobous, and many others—are the threads that weave the nation’s fabric. Together, they form a single, indivisible Côte d’Ivoire.

The MFA’s role in the RHDP: loyalty and reform

The Movement of Future Forces is a founding member of the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP). Its loyalty is rooted in the legacy of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, carried forward by President Henri Konan Bédié, and today aligned with President Alassane Ouattara. This loyalty is active, reformist, and guided by ideas and constructive proposals. The MFA has consistently contributed to the RHDP’s construction through militant commitment and political discipline. It now seeks full rehabilitation within the party’s leadership structures—not as a momentary demand, but as a matter of principle, coherence, and internal justice essential for the party’s long-term viability.

A call to youth, diaspora, and West Africa

To the youth of Côte d’Ivoire, who represent the majority of the population, the MFA delivers a clear message: you are not spectators of the nation’s progress—you are its heirs and architects. Choose work, training, discipline, and rigor. Choose Côte d’Ivoire.

The diaspora, an extension of the nation across continents, is urged to support a bold public policy for integration, including cross-border banking solutions, tax incentives for productive investment, equitable access to public tenders, and adapted political representation.

Côte d’Ivoire is a central link in a rising West Africa. The MFA advocates for a renewed ECOWAS capable of restoring fraternal dialogue with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—brother nations in the Sahel. Côte d’Ivoire, a land of dialogue and diversity, must play an active role in regional mediation. Regional integration is not a diplomatic luxury; it is a necessity for economic and security survival.

A national pledge renewed

Ivoirians, the independence we celebrate is more than a historical milestone—it is a living vow. We renew this pledge to the memory of our elders, the dreams of our children, and the hopes of generations yet unborn. To the fallen soldiers, their families, the wounded, and veterans, your sacrifice is etched in our hearts. To the women of Côte d’Ivoire, pillars of resilience and strength, your courage lights our path forward.

The MFA’s sole ambition is to repay the nation for the gifts it has given us: a standing republic, a living fraternity, and a shared future. This is our contribution to the national oath.

May God bless Côte d’Ivoire. May God bless its Defense and Security Forces. May God bless its sons and daughters, here and abroad.

Happy Independence Day to all.

Long live the Republic! Long live Côte d’Ivoire!

Abidjan, August 4, 2026
Yaya Fofana
Ivorian citizen