Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, 17 August 2023: In a momentous event that marked a milestone in Côte d'Ivoire's development, H.E. Alassane Ouattara, the President of Côte d'Ivoire, officiated the inauguration of the highly anticipated Cocody Bridge on Saturday, August 12th, 2023. 

The Cocody Bridge, an architectural marvel and a key component of the Cocody Bay Development initiative, came to fruition through a joint effort, with the Islamic Development Bank playing a pivotal role. At an estimated total cost of EUR 530 million, the project exemplifies urban mobility and advancement. The Islamic Development Bank's substantial contribution of approximately EUR 260 million has been integral to the bridge's realization.

Soaring over 100 meters high and spanning 630 meters across Cocody Bay, the Alassane Ouattara Bridge boasts a distinctive cable-stayed design, marking a first-of-its-kind achievement in both Côte d'Ivoire and West Africa. Named in honor of President Alassane Ouattara, the bridge emerges as an emblem of the nation's economic growth and aspirations.

With a capacity to accommodate around 30,000 vehicles daily, the Cocody Bridge holds the promise of alleviating urban congestion and facilitating smoother traffic flow within Abidjan, the economic hub of Côte d'Ivoire. It ingeniously connects the municipalities of Cocody and Plateau, bridging the divide between the city's bustling commercial center and its residential neighborhoods.

China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) skillfully executed the Cocody Bridge project, which was wholly financed by the Islamic Development Bank. The cable-stayed design's preliminary studies were undertaken by Marchica Med, a Moroccan firm that contributed invaluable expertise to the endeavor.

In his address during the inauguration, President Alassane Ouattara extended gratitude for the Islamic Development Bank's significant role in Cote d'Ivoire's infrastructural advancement and economic transformation. He commended the successful realization of the project, attributing it to the financial and technical support provided by the Bank. President Ouattara warmly conveyed his regards to President Al Jasser, reminiscing about their shared experiences as Administrators at the International Monetary Fund.

President Ouattara expressed his satisfaction with the Islamic Development Bank's unwavering dedication to development initiatives. He specifically acknowledged the Yamoussoukro - Tiébissou highway extension, inaugurated in December 2022, and hinted at forthcoming projects aimed at bolstering vital road networks. This collaboration between Côte d'Ivoire and the Islamic Development Bank serves as a beacon of gratitude and aspiration, fueling the nation's journey towards progress.

Dr. Nabil Ghalleb, representing H.E. Dr. Muhammad Souleiman Al Jasser, President of the IsDB, conveyed warm regards and sincere well-wishes to President Alassane Ouattara and the Ivorian Government. Dr. Nabil likened the Alassane Ouattara Bridge to more than just concrete and steel; it symbolizes a tangible link between the aspirations of the Ivorian people and the promising future that awaits. This bridge underscores progress, unity, and the steadfast collaboration between the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire and the Islamic Development Bank Group.

Highlighting the enduring partnership, Dr. Nabil Ghalleb emphasized that the cumulative approved financing from the ISDB Group for the country has surged to an impressive US$ 2.438 billion. Coupled with ICIEC's robust business insurance coverage of about US$ 3.864 billion for Ivorian enterprises, this partnership firmly establishes the Islamic Development Bank Group as Côte d'Ivoire's third-largest development ally.

Dr. Nabil Ghalleb further stressed the bank's dynamic involvement, with a portfolio of 19 sovereign projects totaling $1.541 billion. Notably, he highlighted the recent commitment of $2.11 billion to the National Development Plan 2021-2025, with an initial $500 million already approved, reflecting a strong resonance with Côte d'Ivoire's strategic aspirations and commitment to sustainable development.

The inauguration of the "Alassane Ouattara Bridge" symbolizes a shared commitment to progress, prosperity, and innovation. It stands as a testament to the visionary collaboration between Côte d'Ivoire and the Islamic Development Bank Group.