Abidjan has reached a decisive milestone in its ecological transition. On Monday, June 1, 2026, Côte d'Ivoire officially approved the second update of its National Plan for the implementation of the Stockholm Convention. This strategic program, with a budget of 8.2 billion CFA francs, aims to massively eliminate highly toxic chemicals over the next five years.

From plan to action: the State's commitment

During a workshop bringing together public institutions, the private sector and financial partners, the political endorsement of this document was formalized by Indira Yanni-Domingo, deputy chief of staff to the Minister of the Environment and Ecological Transition, Abou Bamba.

"This political endorsement reflects the will of the State of Côte d'Ivoire to move from planning to action, in accordance with the provisions of the 2023 Environmental Code," she stressed.

As a signatory to the Stockholm Convention since 2004, the country is updating its strategy in the face of the environmental emergency: the list of hazardous substances (recognized for their toxicity, persistence and health impact) has indeed grown to now include 34 chemicals .

The major challenges of the five-year plan

The new plan primarily targets two major environmental projects:

1. PCBs: Eliminate approximately 1,000 tonnes of polychlorinated biphenyls by 2028.
2. Agricultural waste: Implementing sustainable management for nearly 2,500 tonnes of empty pesticide packaging generated each year.

To meet this challenge, the program is divided into three phases. The very first, estimated at 3.83 billion FCFA , will focus on the destruction of stocks of obsolete chemicals, the treatment of pesticide packaging and the immediate protection of the most vulnerable populations against the risks of contamination.

A national and international synergy

For Dr. Djè Konan Anicet, the Convention's national focal point, this upgrade provides Côte d'Ivoire with a robust operational framework to honor its international commitments. Essoh Aimé Franck, the ministry's general project coordinator, welcomed the strong involvement of sectoral ministries and private sector stakeholders.

The success of this initiative also relies on strong international support. The Ivorian authorities were keen to acknowledge the technical and financial support of three key partners:

1. The Global Environment Facility (GEF)
2. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
3. The Basel Convention Regional Centre for Francophone Africa (based in Dakar).

By deploying this ambitious plan, Côte d'Ivoire reaffirms its commitment to preserving its ecosystems, protecting public health and sustainably aligning itself with global ecological standards.