Destination: Côte d’Ivoire – Ivory Coast

Country profile – Cote D’Ivoire/ Ivory Coast
Known not just for being the largest producer of cocoa in the world, Côte d’Ivoire used to be one of the few countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that was considered commendably peaceful, despite hosting almost 60 different ethnic groups.
For almost three decades after independence the country was distinctly known for its developed economy and its social, political and ethnic harmony.
In 2002, due to an armed rebellion, the country was ripped in two. Since then, Côte d’Ivoire has struggled to get back on track.
The country barely had a chance to compensate for the damage caused by the Civil War in 2002, before the disputed elections in 2010 set it back again and livelihoods across Côte d’Ivoire were severely affected.

Post independence, the country boasted a stable government and one of the wealthiest economies in West Africa. But as a result of civil war, coups and political divisions, the economy has slumped.
However, with its good infrastructure and natural resources, Côte d’Ivoire should be able to recover economically from the recent unrest. Also, with the emergence of new peace deals, the country has found itself slowly finding its way back to the political stability it used to have.

Ivorian economy
Currency: West African CFA Franc
Population: 21,952,093
GDP based on PPP: $39.501 bn
GDP growth 2012 (2011): -4.7%
Head of Government: President Alassane Ouattara
Finance Minister: Daniel Kablan Duncan

Ivorian Business
Language: French
World Bank Doing Business rank: 177
World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness rank: 129
Investment agency: Centre de Promotion des Investissements en Côte d’Ivoire
Public sector opening hours: 0800-1700
Private sector opening hours: 0800-1700
Legal system: Based on French Law

Getting There
Airlines: Lufthansa, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Air France
Visas: Ivorian Tourist visa required for UK nationals – valid for three months and costs £96
Hotels: £36 – 326 a night

By Medha Prakasam 2013