In an era where economic stability is increasingly rare, Côte d’Ivoire is emerging as a trailblazer, setting a new benchmark for fiscal discipline and innovative public finance across Africa. Once marred by political and economic instability, the West African nation is now being celebrated by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a model of sound economic governance.

After more than a decade of sustained reforms, Côte d’Ivoire has not only modernized its economy but also won global confidence in its ability to manage debt while delivering development. Since 2011, the country has focused on diversifying its economy, upgrading infrastructure, and keeping its public finances in check. These efforts have paid off, placing it among the top performers in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU).

“Côte d’Ivoire’s fiscal consolidation plan is on track to reduce deficits to 3 percent of GDP by 2025,” said IMF Mission Chief Olaf Unteroberdoester, applauding the country’s financial discipline. He also highlighted one of the nation’s most talked-about reforms, the launch of a groundbreaking debt-for-development swap programme in late 2024.

With World Bank support, the initiative replaced costly short-term commercial debt with a longer-term, low-interest loan. The move has already saved the government approximately €60 million in net present value and unlocked €330 million over five years, much of which is being channelled into building schools in underserved rural areas.

The World Bank’s Managing Director of Operations, Anna Bjerde, hailed the programme as a pioneering approach that could reshape public debt management in other developing countries. “This initiative has strong potential for replication, especially as nations confront shrinking aid and rising debt,” Bjerde stated.

The praise comes as Côte d’Ivoire’s economy continues to thrive. According to Bloomfield Intelligence’s Country Risk Côte d’Ivoire 2025 report, the country recorded a 6.1% growth rate in 2024, driven by high-performing sectors and reforms under the National Development Plan. Projections for 2025 are even more optimistic, with anticipated growth between 6.3% and 6.7%, spurred by continued diversification and promising oil and gold discoveries.

Though the country’s risk rating slightly dipped from 6.5 to 6.3, it remains firmly in the low-risk category for investors. Still, challenges persist. The Bloomfield report warned that while macroeconomic gains are clear, their benefits have yet to fully reach the broader population. Life expectancy remains below global averages, underscoring the need for inclusive policies.

With a critical presidential election looming in October 2025, all eyes are on Côte d’Ivoire’s leadership to ensure the gains of growth are felt by all. But for now, the country stands tall as Africa’s emerging blueprint for responsible, inclusive, and resilient economic governance.