Ivory Coast

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Brief information

General Information

Official Name: The Republic of Côte d'Ivoire
Short Name: CI
Continent: Africa

Codes

Calling Code: +225
ISO3: CIV
Capital City: Yamoussoukro
Domain: .ci

Statistics

Area(Sqre/KM): 318000 SqKM
Population: About 26378274 as of 2025
Population Density: 82.95
Population By Religion: Islam 43%, Christian 39%
No of Mobiles: 152
No of Telephone: 1
GDP Per Capita: 2700
GDP Total: $77 Billion

Politics

Nationality: Ivoirians
President: Alassane Ouattara (President)
Prime Minister: Robert Beugré Mambé (Prime Minister)
Independence Day: August 7

Travel

Currency: Franc
Latitude: 7.539989
Longitude: -5.54708
Driving Side: Right

Language

Languages: French (official), 60 native dialects of which Dioula is the most widely spoken
National Language: French

About Ivory Coast

📌 Geographic Location
Ivory Coast, officially the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, is a coastal country in West Africa. It borders Liberia and Guinea to the west, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Its prime location along the Gulf of Guinea makes it a crucial hub for trade and cultural exchange in the region.

📜 Historical Background
Before French colonization in the late 19th century, Ivory Coast was home to several powerful indigenous kingdoms and rich trade networks. It gained independence from France in 1960. Post-independence, the country experienced economic growth and political stability for several decades, but faced civil unrest and political challenges in the early 2000s. Since then, efforts toward peace and economic recovery have shaped its modern identity.

🌐 Global Significance
Ivory Coast is the world's largest producer and exporter of cocoa beans, making it a vital player in the global chocolate industry. Its economy also benefits from other agricultural products, oil, and a growing industrial sector. Regionally, Ivory Coast plays a strategic role in West African politics, economic cooperation, and cultural influence.

Interesting facts

🌍 Geography and Environment

  1. Diverse Landscapes: Ivory Coast features coastal lagoons, dense rainforests, savannahs, and mountains like Mount Nimba, which is the country’s highest point at 1,752 meters.

  2. Taï National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it preserves one of the last West African rainforests and shelters endangered species such as pygmy hippos and chimpanzees.

  3. Tropical Climate: The country experiences two rainy and two dry seasons annually, providing ideal conditions for its rich agriculture.

🏛️ Politics and Governance

  1. Multi-Party Democracy: Since the 1990s, Ivory Coast has operated as a presidential democratic republic with regular elections and multiple political parties.

  2. Post-Conflict Recovery: After a civil war in the early 2000s, Ivory Coast became a regional example of peacebuilding and political stabilization.

  3. Regional Leader: It is a key member of ECOWAS and plays a crucial role in West African economic integration and peacekeeping efforts.

🎭 Culture and Society

  1. Musical Heritage: Ivory Coast is the birthplace of popular music styles like Zouglou and Coupé-Décalé, influential throughout West Africa.

  2. Traditional Crafts: The country is famous for intricate mask-making and weaving, central to many cultural ceremonies.

  3. Cuisine: Local dishes like attiéké (fermented cassava), kedjenou (chicken stew), and foutou (mashed plantains or yams) showcase Ivorian culinary diversity.

📚 Education and Innovation

  1. Higher Education: Universities such as Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny attract students regionally, enhancing Ivory Coast’s academic influence.

  2. Emerging Tech Scene: Abidjan hosts startups focusing on fintech, agricultural technology, and e-commerce, signaling digital growth.

  3. Literacy Efforts: National and NGO initiatives have improved literacy rates, especially promoting girls’ education in rural areas.

💼 Economy and Industry

  1. Top Cocoa Producer: Ivory Coast supplies nearly 40% of the world’s cocoa beans, making it the largest global exporter.

  2. Oil and Gas: Offshore reserves contribute significantly to national revenue beyond agriculture.

  3. Urban Growth: Abidjan is rapidly expanding as a commercial hub with large infrastructure projects fueling economic development.

🌿 Biodiversity and Conservation

  1. Unique Wildlife: Species like the Diana monkey and pygmy hippopotamus live here, though they are threatened by habitat loss.

  2. Sustainable Forestry: Efforts aim to balance logging with conservation to protect rainforests while supporting local livelihoods.

  3. Birdwatching Haven: Over 600 bird species make Ivory Coast a top destination for bird enthusiasts.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 People and Social Life

  1. Ethnic Diversity: More than 60 ethnic groups, including Akan, Kru, and Mandé peoples, contribute to a rich cultural mosaic.

  2. Festivals: Traditional events like Fête des Masques celebrate ancestral spirits through elaborate dances and masks.

  3. Warm Hospitality: Ivorians are renowned for their welcoming nature and communal meal-sharing traditions.

🏅 Historical and Modern Achievements

  1. Ancient Kingdoms: Pre-colonial states such as the Baoulé kingdom influence modern Ivorian culture and art.

  2. Literary Recognition: Writer Ahmadou Kourouma gained global fame for exploring post-colonial African themes.

  3. Football Passion: The national team, Les Éléphants, has qualified for multiple FIFA World Cups and won the Africa Cup of Nations twice.

  4. Economic Hub: Ivory Coast is considered one of West Africa’s most stable and prosperous countries, driving regional trade and investment.

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