The West African country of Cote d’Ivoire has celebrated its 64th Independence Day in the historic capital city of Grand Bassam, which is located several kilometers away from Abidjan.
Grand-Bassam holds significance for Ivorians as it serves as a reminder of the heroism and memory of Marie KORÉ, Anne-Marie RAGGI, and other valiant women who were emblematic figures of the anti-colonial struggle.
In December 1949, women marched in Grand Bassam to demand freedom and justice, which later led to the country’s independence.
President Ouattara acknowledged the numerous sacrifices made by these women to overcome their differences and unite for a free and independent Ivory Coast. He highlighted this as an inspiration for all Ivorians and expressed gratitude for the late President Félix HOUPHOUËT-BOIGNY and all the fighters for independence.
According to president Ouattara, those who fought for the country’s independent are an inspiration for every Ivorian, obviously have a pious thought and full of gratitude for the Father of the Nation, the late President Félix HOUPHOUËT-BOIGNY, as well as for all his fellow fighters.
They led the fight for the independence of our country, we must prove ourselves worthy of all the sacrifices they have made in our resolute march towards progress.
“My dear compatriots, the commemoration of our accession to sovereignty is also an opportunity to take a retrospective look at the progress we have made. It is also an opportunity to better appreciate current challenges and future issues. During my speech on the State of the Nation before Parliament in Congress on June 18, 2024 I broadly presented the main achievements of our governance in recent years and the challenges we must face”, he added.
The Ivorian leader emphasized the importance of making social cohesion the foundation of development and following the values of fraternity, unity, discipline, and work in all circumstances. He urged Ivorians to continue working for peace, which he considered fundamental for the real existence of mankind.
The day celebration also comprised of paramilitary parades in the city.
