Côte d’Ivoire’s ambitious high-speed rail vision: connecting Abidjan to the north

Côte d’Ivoire is poised for a monumental leap in modernizing its national infrastructure. Under the ambitious National Development Program (PND) 2026-2030, the government has unveiled plans for a transformative High-Speed Train (TGV) network, designed to link the southern and northern regions of the country. This flagship initiative forms a crucial part of a broader strategy aimed at economic and territorial transformation, solidifying Côte d’Ivoire’s position as an indispensable hub in West Africa.

Côte d’Ivoire is making a determined bid to join the ranks of nations boasting a very high-speed rail network. The forthcoming Ivorian TGV will establish a vital 640-kilometer corridor, connecting the bustling economic capital of Abidjan to Ferkessédougou, with key stops including Yamoussoukro, Bouaké, and Korhogo.

Beyond its impressive technical scope, this infrastructure project is envisioned as a powerful catalyst for territorial integration. It promises to seamlessly link the nation’s primary economic centers while drastically cutting down travel durations across the country.

According to Souleymane Diarrassouba, the Minister of Planning and Development, the journey between Abidjan and Yamoussoukro will be dramatically reduced to just 45 minutes. This significant advancement is anticipated to reshape daily life and work patterns for citizens, notably by enabling individuals to reside in the political capital while pursuing their careers in the economic hub.

Metro, airports, roads: a nationwide infrastructure overhaul

The TGV project is an integral component of a comprehensive vision for modernizing the nation’s transport infrastructure. The government has also confirmed that the 37-kilometer Abidjan Metro is scheduled to commence operations by 2029.

The aviation sector is likewise undergoing significant expansion. Plans are in motion for two new international airports, to be located in San-Pedro in the southwest and Bondoukou in the east, aiming to bolster both domestic and regional connectivity.

PND 2026-2030: a blueprint for structural transformation

Through its latest National Development Program, the Ivorian state seeks to accelerate the country’s economic transformation. This strategic plan is founded on several core priorities: fostering regional economic hubs, driving rapid industrialization, and enhancing the value of local production.

This approach underscores the authorities’ commitment to reinforcing the state’s pivotal role in national development planning and guidance.

The overarching ambition is to elevate Côte d’Ivoire to upper-middle-income country status by 2030, while simultaneously consolidating its achievements in stability and social cohesion.

Over 114,000 billion FCFA earmarked for mobilization

To realize this ambitious vision, the government estimates that 114,838.5 billion FCFA will need to be mobilized during the 2026-2030 period. The financing strategy relies on a shared investment model, with public sector contributions accounting for 30% and the private sector for 70%.

In light of this, Abidjan is set to host a high-level Consultative Group meeting on July 8 and 9, 2026, specifically designed to engage and mobilize international financial partners.

Organized with the crucial support of the World Bank, the European Union, the African Development Bank, and the United Nations System, this gathering aims to articulate the country’s development vision and secure the necessary funding for its successful implementation.

Charting a course for regional economic leadership

Through this ambitious program, Côte d’Ivoire unequivocally declares its aspirations: to emerge as one of West Africa’s foremost logistical, industrial, and economic powerhouses.

From the high-speed rail and metro systems to new airport platforms and the modernization of its road network, the nation is committed to equipping itself with the essential infrastructure to sustain robust growth and amplify its appeal on the regional stage.