{"id":2000120846,"date":"2026-07-29T16:18:56","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T14:18:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/?p=2000120846"},"modified":"2026-07-29T16:19:04","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T14:19:04","slug":"discovering-cote-divoire-the-worlds-cocoa-powerhouse-behind-the-chocolate-industry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/discovering-cote-divoire-the-worlds-cocoa-powerhouse-behind-the-chocolate-industry\/","title":{"rendered":"Discovering C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire, the world\u2019s cocoa powerhouse behind the chocolate industry"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The country is the world\u2019s largest producer of cocoa, the essential raw material used in making chocolate and other related products. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Covering an area of 322,463 square kilometres, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is home to more than 33 million people. It shares borders with five countries: Ghana to the east, Liberia and Guinea to the west, Mali to the north, and Burkina Faso to the north-east. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

French is the official language and the most widely spoken language in C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The country is also home to numerous local languages, including Baoul\u00e9, Dioula, Dan, and Yacouba, among others. These indigenous languages are mostly spoken within specific communities and regions, while French serves as the main language of communication across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For foreigners who do not speak French, adapting to life in C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire can be challenging, as English is not commonly spoken by a large part of the population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Economically, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is one of the strongest economies in West Africa, with a gross domestic product (GDP) exceeding $95.4 billion. The average income per person is estimated at more than $2,900 annually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The services sector remains the largest contributor to the country\u2019s economy, accounting for about 51 per cent of GDP. It is followed by industry, which contributes nearly 24 per cent, while agriculture accounts for approximately 17 per cent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Agriculture remains a key pillar of C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire\u2019s economy, with the country producing a wide range of agricultural products, including palm oil, cashew nuts, cotton, coffee, and other crops. However, cocoa remains its most important agricultural export. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire produces approximately 40 per cent of the world\u2019s cocoa supply, making it the largest cocoa-producing country globally. The cocoa beans grown across the country are mainly used in the production of chocolate, making C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire a crucial player in the international chocolate industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The official currency used in C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is the West African CFA franc (XOF). One US dollar is equivalent to approximately 576 CFA francs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond its economic importance, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is also known for its unique cuisine. One of the country\u2019s most popular traditional dishes is Atti\u00e9k\u00e9, a meal prepared from cassava. The cassava is first soaked in salty water and mixed with previously prepared Atti\u00e9k\u00e9, which helps with fermentation. It is then pressed, dried, packed, and cooked through steaming in hot water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Atti\u00e9k\u00e9 is commonly served with fish and vegetables. Other popular Ivorian dishes include Alloco, made from fried plantains cooked in palm oil; Foutou (Fufu), a cassava-based staple; Kedjenou, Garba, and many other traditional meals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fish is the most widely consumed animal-based food in C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire. However, around 70 per cent of the fish consumed in the country is imported because local fishing activities have not yet developed enough to meet domestic demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Religiously, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is a diverse nation, with Islam being the largest faith practiced by about 42.5 per cent of the population. Christians represent around 39.8 per cent, including Catholics who account for approximately 17 per cent, while the remaining population follows other religions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The spread of Islam in C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is largely linked to Arab traders who travelled from North Africa to West Africa between the 14th and 15th centuries through trans-Saharan trade routes. Their movement contributed significantly to the expansion of Islamic influence across the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire stands as one of Africa\u2019s most influential economies, combining agricultural strength, cultural diversity, and natural resources that continue to shape its role on the global stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Notre-Dame de la Paix Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks and tourist attractions in Yamoussoukro.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Following the decline of the Mali and Songhai Empires, Arab traders known as Dyula or Jula migrated to northern C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire, where they introduced trade practices and promoted the teachings of Islam. Their influence contributed to the development of important Islamic cultural centres, including Bondoukou and Bouna, which remain significant areas of Islamic heritage in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire gained independence in 1960 after decades of French colonial rule that began in 1893. However, French traders had already arrived in the region as early as the 15th century, initially engaging in commercial activities before colonial administration was established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire has two major cities that play different roles: Abidjan, which serves as the country\u2019s economic and commercial hub, and Yamoussoukro, the political capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Abidjan is a coastal city located along the Atlantic Ocean and is also home to the \u00c9bri\u00e9 Lagoon, a large water body that runs through the city. Its unique location has contributed to the development of beautiful beaches and coastal attractions, including Assinie Beach, Grand-Bassam, Jacqueville Beach, and other popular destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The city\u2019s growth was largely influenced by its historical role as a major port through which goods from Africa were transported to France. The French developed Abidjan extensively and also established Grand-Bassam, which was later designated as the capital of French colonial territories in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, Grand-Bassam has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and remains one of C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire\u2019s most visited tourist destinations. The city still preserves colonial-era buildings that reflect French architecture, lifestyle, and the history of the colonial period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Abidjan is also home to the St Paul\u2019s Cathedral, built in 1985, which is considered one of the most modern architectural cathedrals in Africa. Its unique design attracts many visitors, including religious pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For history and culture lovers, Abidjan offers the Mus\u00e9e des Civilisations de C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire, a national museum established in 1942 that houses more than 15,000 artefacts. The museum showcases the country\u2019s diverse cultures, traditional lifestyles, colonial history, and heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another important cultural site is the Mus\u00e9e Charles Combes de Bingerville. Originally an art studio belonging to Charles Alphonse Combes, which operated between 1891 and 1968, it was later transformed into a museum displaying paintings and sculptures created by Combes and his students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visitors interested in wildlife can explore the Zoo National d\u2019Abidjan, which hosts various animal species, including elephants, lions, monkeys, crocodiles, snakes, birds, and many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Abidjan is also home to Banco National Park, one of the largest natural forests located within an urban area. The forest is inhabited by various wildlife species, particularly different types of monkeys, and serves as an important green space within the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, Yamoussoukro serves as C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire\u2019s political capital. The city has fewer tourist attractions and economic activities compared to Abidjan because it is still developing after being declared the capital in 1983 by then-President F\u00e9lix Houphou\u00ebt-Boigny, who chose the city because it was his birthplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The city currently hosts the presidential palace, the country\u2019s Parliament, various government ministries, and other political institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, Yamoussoukro is famous for housing the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Notre-Dame de la Paix), the second-largest basilica in the world after St Peter\u2019s Basilica in Vatican City. The basilica is also recognised as the world\u2019s largest church by surface area, covering approximately 30,000 square metres and having the capacity to accommodate more than 18,000 worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another attraction in Yamoussoukro is Lac aux Ca\u00efmans, a crocodile lake created by President F\u00e9lix Houphou\u00ebt-Boigny, who introduced crocodile breeding at the site. The lake is currently home to more than 200 crocodiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overall, many developments in C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire reflect those of other emerging economies, with numerous construction projects underway alongside older infrastructure that still remains in use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Rwandans wishing to visit C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire, a visa is not required. However, there are currently no direct flights from Kigali to C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire. Most travellers connect through Addis Ababa before continuing their journey to Abidjan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite its economic progress and tourism potential, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire still faces challenges related to cleanliness and urban management. In some areas, visitors may encounter overgrown roadside vegetation, litter, stagnant water, and cases of people urinating in public spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some hotels also have practices that may differ from international standards, with guests sometimes being informed that bed sheets will only be changed after checkout unless they specifically request a replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visitors travelling to C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire are also advised to remain cautious and avoid walking alone, especially in unfamiliar areas, due to security concerns such as theft and robbery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abidjan is a coastal city shaped by its waterways, and its skyline becomes especially stunning when illuminated at night.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Assinie Beach is among the most visited coastal attractions in the Abidjan area, known for its beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Paix holds the record as the world\u2019s largest basilica in terms of surface area.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Saint Paul\u2019s Cathedral is a remarkable architectural masterpiece whose unique design attracts visitors and tourists from around the world.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Paix is among the largest religious buildings in the world.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Grand-Bassam is home to numerous colonial-era buildings that preserve the architectural heritage and history of the period.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
The Saint Paul\u2019s Cathedral, one of Abidjan\u2019s most iconic landmarks, was constructed in 1985.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Grand-Bassam is a historic town that once served as a French colonial city during the colonial era.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Grand-Bassam\u2019s location along the Atlantic Ocean gives it a stunning coastline with beautiful beaches that attract visitors.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire continues to strengthen its infrastructure development efforts, with significant investments being made in the construction of modern road networks.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
This is the view of Abidjan\u2019s streets at night.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Lac aux Ca\u00efmans was originally created as a site for breeding crocodiles.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Today, Lac aux Ca\u00efmans serves as a habitat for more than 200 crocodiles.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
The Mus\u00e9e des Civilisations de C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire houses a wide range of exhibits that showcase different aspects of the country\u2019s history, culture, and important events that have shaped its identity.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
The Mus\u00e9e des Civilisations de C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire contains more than 15,000 artefacts that highlight the country\u2019s rich cultural heritage, traditions, and history.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
The city of Abidjan is a major commercial hub with a wide range of business activities.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Yamoussoukro is a developing city that continues to expand, with ongoing construction and infrastructure projects shaping its growth.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Zoo National d\u2019Abidjan houses elephants alongside a variety of other wildlife species.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"
Zoo National d\u2019Abidjan houses a wide range of animal species from different categories.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Zoo National d\u2019Abidjan is a dedicated wildlife sanctuary that houses and protects a variety of animal species.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Located in West Africa along the Atlantic Ocean, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire is a country renowned for its vibrant economy, rich culture, tourism potential, and its leading role in the global cocoa industry.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":139,"featured_media":2000120855,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[151,69],"byline":[201],"hashtag":[],"class_list":["post-2000120846","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tourism","tag-editors-choice","tag-homehighlights","byline-rania-umutoni"],"bylines":[{"id":201,"name":"Rania Umutoni","slug":"rania-umutoni","description":"","image":{"id":0,"url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/?s=96&d=mm&f=y&r=g","alt":"Default avatar","title":"Default avatar","caption":"","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","sizes":[]},"user_id":139}],"contributors":[{"id":201,"name":"Rania Umutoni","slug":"rania-umutoni","description":"","image":{"id":0,"url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/?s=96&d=mm&f=y&r=g","alt":"Default avatar","title":"Default avatar","caption":"","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","sizes":[]},"user_id":139}],"featured_image":{"id":2000120855,"url":"https:\/\/cdn.igihe.com\/en\/2026\/07\/bazilika_ya_notre_dame_au_la_paix_ni_yo_bazilika_yubatse_ku_buso_bunini_ku_isi-53b08.jpg","alt":"","caption":"","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","width":1000,"height":646,"sizes":{"thumbnail":{"url":"https:\/\/cdn.igihe.com\/en\/2026\/07\/bazilika_ya_notre_dame_au_la_paix_ni_yo_bazilika_yubatse_ku_buso_bunini_ku_isi-53b08.jpg","width":1000,"height":646},"medium":{"url":"https:\/\/cdn.igihe.com\/en\/2026\/07\/bazilika_ya_notre_dame_au_la_paix_ni_yo_bazilika_yubatse_ku_buso_bunini_ku_isi-53b08.jpg","width":1000,"height":646},"medium_large":{"url":"https:\/\/cdn.igihe.com\/en\/2026\/07\/bazilika_ya_notre_dame_au_la_paix_ni_yo_bazilika_yubatse_ku_buso_bunini_ku_isi-53b08.jpg","width":1000,"height":646},"large":{"url":"https:\/\/cdn.igihe.com\/en\/2026\/07\/bazilika_ya_notre_dame_au_la_paix_ni_yo_bazilika_yubatse_ku_buso_bunini_ku_isi-53b08.jpg","width":1000,"height":646},"full":{"url":"https:\/\/cdn.igihe.com\/en\/2026\/07\/bazilika_ya_notre_dame_au_la_paix_ni_yo_bazilika_yubatse_ku_buso_bunini_ku_isi-53b08.jpg","width":1000,"height":646}}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2000120846","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/139"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2000120846"}],"version-history":[{"count":19,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2000120846\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2000120953,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2000120846\/revisions\/2000120953"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2000120855"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2000120846"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2000120846"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2000120846"},{"taxonomy":"byline","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/byline?post=2000120846"},{"taxonomy":"hashtag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hashtag?post=2000120846"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}