Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, October 18, 2023 —The Islamic Development Bank Group has today released the findings of its Country Assistance Evaluation in Cote d'Ivoire following a comprehensive evaluation of the country's assistance spanning from 2012 to 2021. The report, aimed at shaping the future strategic direction of the Bank's assistance, provides a detailed analysis of the impact of IsDB's interventions in the country, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, education, finance, health and social services, transportation, water, sanitation, and urban services.

IsDB Director of the Independent Evaluation Department, Mr. Ahmed Ag Aboubacrine, highlighted the strategic partnership between the Islamic Development Bank and the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, emphasizing their shared commitment to enhance development in the West African nation. He said, "Through the strategic partnership between the Islamic Development Bank and the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, we forge a powerful alliance for sustainable development. This collaboration is a shared commitment to catalyze positive change". 

Speaking at the event for the dissemination of the Country Assistance Evaluation Report findings, Côte d'Ivoire's Chief of Staff, Dr Nahoua YEO, applauded IsDB for its pivotal role in turning Côte d'Ivoire's visionary initiatives into tangible realities and its continued support to the country's development trajectory. "IsDB’s contribution towards achieving Cote d’Ivoire National development’s priorities grew substantially since 2012, with an established objective of US$2.11 Billion for the financing of the 2021-2025 National Development Plan, from which US$700 million were already approved", he declared.

The evaluation delved into IsDB's $2.1 billion portfolio in Côte d'Ivoire over the last decade, focusing on its role in promoting the nation's development. IsDB's support has been instrumental in critical sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. Investments in projects like the Cocody Bridge have enhanced urban mobility and connectivity, contributing to economic growth. Initiatives in healthcare and education have promoted inclusivity and sustainable progress.

IsDB's financial support has acted as a catalyst for implementing impactful projects, closely aligning with Côte d'Ivoire's developmental goals, and contributing significantly to the nation's advancement. These operations align with the country's priorities outlined in the National Development Plans (NDPs) and the IsDB's Realigned Strategic Goals.

The completed projects, constituting 48% of the portfolio, have received an overall rating of "Effective," with tangible impacts observed across sectors. Notable achievements include the extension of the road network, improved access to water and sanitation, and significant contributions to food self-sufficiency and education. However, delays in implementation, attributed to various factors, pose a challenge, resulting in an ageing portfolio and a disbursement rate of 59%. Nevertheless, completed projects are rated likely sustainable, thanks to coordinated efforts, community involvement, and the establishment of toll booths for maintenance.

Key takeaways from the evaluation underscored the importance of community involvement in project design, highlighted challenges like cost overruns affecting sustainability, and commended the decentralization of IsDB's assistance for expediting project implementation. 

The evaluation recommends that IsDB actively participate in donor coordination forums, develop a comprehensive communication strategy for improved visibility, and advocate for Islamic finance activities. For the Government of Côte d'Ivoire, the report suggests advocating for institutional reforms, enhancing budgetary programming, and streamlining the procurement process.

For media inquiries, please contact: Muhammed Asad – Communication Officer- Masad@isdb.org

For more information, please visit ( www.isdb.org)

Find updates on LinkedIn:

Visit us on X: @isdb_group 

Engage with us on Facebook: