Minister of State, Minister of Defence, Téné Birahima Ouattara, has been designated “Man of the Year 2025” by the NGO Balle à Terre, following a consultation process involving civil society actors, media professionals and several observers of national public life.

This distinction recognizes the work carried out by the head of Ivorian Defence over the past year, marked by the strengthening of the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire (FACI) and the consolidation of the national security system in a particularly sensitive sub-regional context.

According to the prize's organizers, the selection was based on several criteria, including the impact of actions on national life, contribution to social cohesion, and promotion of republican values. Téné Birahima Ouattara is presented as one of the figures who has most positively influenced the country's trajectory in 2025.

Beyond the security aspect, the NGO also highlights its political leadership, its ability to mobilize and its commitment to living together, elements which weighed heavily in the balance during the final selection.

This recognition comes at a time when the Minister of State has seen his institutional role further strengthened with his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister at the beginning of 2026, while retaining the strategic portfolio of Defence.

The official award ceremony, held in Abidjan, took place in a solemn atmosphere, bringing together several figures from the institutional, political and social world who came to salute the recipient's career and commitment.

Through this prize, the organizers intend to highlight models of governance, discipline and patriotism that can inspire Ivorian youth and contribute to the consolidation of peace and stability in Ivory Coast.