Fast Facts:
1. It’s located in West Africa and is the 28th largest country in Africa.
2. Its political capital is Yamoussoukro, while its economic capital and largest city is Abidjan.
3. It has more than 60 ethnic groups. Major ethnic groups include: Akan (29%), Voltaique or Gur (16%), Northern Mande (15%), Kru (9)%, Southern Mande (7%)
4. Major languages: French (official), Dioula, Baule, Dan, Anyin, Senari
5. Major religions: Islam (40%), Christianity (34%), Traditional and Indigenous religions (25%), other religions (1%)
6. It was colonized by France in 1843 and gained independence in 1960.
7. It’s had 2 civil wars post-independence. The first was a 5-year conflict, between 2002 and 2007, largely over religious tensions. The second was a 5-month conflict, between 2010 and 2011, over the disputed presidential election.
8. Sixty percent of the population is under age 25.
9. It is the world’s largest producer and exporter of cocoa beans.
10. It has the world’s 3rd largest French speaking population.
11. The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, located in Yamoussoukro, is the largest church in the world.
12. It has 3 national parks on the UNESCO World Heritage List: Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve; Taï National Park, home of 11 monkey species; and Comoe National Park, West Africa’s largest protected area.
13. Abidjan is a cosmopolitan city and its Plateau area has been called the “Manhattan of Africa” because of its gleaming skyscrapers and manicured gardens.
14. The beach resorts of San Pedro, Assinie, and Grand Bassam are popular with vacationers.
15. Côte D’Ivoire’s tourism industry is rapidly increasing, having seen a near ten-fold increase between 2010 and 2020. Attractions include beaches, rainforests, wildlife safaris, mountains, waterfalls, local culture, art markets, and a vibrant nightlife.
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