Bouaké, a city in full renewal
As part of the African Cup of Nations (CAN) which will be held from January 13 to February 11, Bouaké, located in Ivory Coast, has been designated as one of the host cities. The second most populous city in the country, Bouaké will host Group D, made up of teams from Burkina Faso, Algeria, Mauritania and Angola. But Bouaké is not only preparing for the competition, it is also in the process of rehabilitation and revitalization.
Bouaké, which experienced troubled times in the 2000s as the seat of the rebellion, today aspires to erase this image of a rebel city and show its true potential. The local authorities and residents of Bouaké have undertaken numerous renovation and development projects to restore the city to its former glory.
One of the main rehabilitation projects is the reconstruction of road infrastructure, which was largely dilapidated after years of conflict. Roads and bridges are being renovated, which will improve traffic in the city and facilitate access to the various CAN sites. In addition, housing and neighborhood renovation projects are also underway, helping to improve the living conditions of Bouaké residents.
In addition to the renovation projects, Bouaké is also preparing to welcome the thousands of supporters expected during the competition. Sports infrastructures have been renovated and new hotels and restaurants have opened their doors to offer optimal comfort to visitors.
Beyond the CAN, Bouaké also aims to develop its tourism sector. The city is full of cultural attractions, such as bustling markets, museums and historically rich architecture. Local authorities work together with tourism stakeholders to introduce the unique heritage of Bouaké to national and international visitors.
Bouaké, in full transformation, illustrates Côte d’Ivoire’s desire to highlight its cities and offer its inhabitants and visitors modern and attractive infrastructure. The designation of Bouaké as host city of the CAN is an opportunity for the city to show itself in its best light and promote its economic, tourist and cultural potential. The competition will undoubtedly be a catalyst to accelerate the transformation of Bouaké and consolidate its place as a dynamic and welcoming city.