The Ivorian government is stepping up its efforts to secure its northern borders. On Thursday, May 21, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Téné Birahima Ouattara began a two-day tour of the north of the country. The objective? To inaugurate a series of key infrastructure projects to modernize and increase the effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire (FACI).

This initiative is part of a comprehensive plan to strengthen the capabilities of the Northern Operational Zone , a crucial sector in the face of current cross-border security challenges.

The main stages of the ministerial tour

The Minister of Defence has confirmed the strengthening of the security and logistical network through two major stopovers:

1. Korhogo: Priority to logistics and health

Within the 4th Infantry Battalion , support capabilities have been significantly strengthened thanks to the inauguration of two structures:

1. A brand new Army Medical Centre to optimize the health monitoring of troops.
2. A maintenance workshop to ensure the operational availability of the equipment.

2. Ferkessédougou: A reinforced security and medical hub

The tour continued with the deployment of significant resources, including:

1. A state-of-the-art , modern military hospital .
2. An additional maintenance workshop .
3. A mobile Gendarmerie squadron , essential to increase the security presence on the ground.

Improving troop conditions for greater effectiveness

Behind these investments, the political will is clear: to place the living, working and support conditions of soldiers at the heart of the State's priorities.

The authorities' objective: To guarantee maximum responsiveness and efficiency from the units engaged daily in protecting territorial integrity. Thanks to this professionalism, Côte d'Ivoire is now establishing itself as a solid and credible partner in regional and international security.

Joint funding and a strong social impact

The realization of these projects relies on a synergy of strong partnerships:

1. The European Union , through decisive financial and logistical support via the “DEFEND-CI” and “PARSEC” projects.
2. The Military Provident Fund , which financed the construction of new extensions and the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment.

A double impact for the region

While these infrastructures strengthen the autonomy of military units, they also have a strong social dimension. Indeed, these modern medical centers will open their doors to local civilian populations , thus improving access to healthcare in these isolated border areas.