Ivory Coast to Replace French Colonial-Era Street names with Ivorian Names

Ivory Coast to Replace French Colonial-Era Street names with Ivorian Names

News 24

Ivory Coast has embarked on a comprehensive initiative to replace French colonial-era street names with those honoring Ivorian figures and values. This effort, part of a broader addressing project initiated in 2017, aims to rename approximately 14,000 streets in Abidjan, the nation’s economic capital, by 2030. 

The project has already seen the renaming of several major thoroughfares. For instance, Boulevard Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, previously named after the former French president, has been renamed Boulevard Félix Houphouët-Boigny, honoring Ivory Coast’s first president. Similarly, Boulevard de France is now Boulevard Marie-Thérèse Houphouët-Boigny, and Boulevard de Marseille has been changed to Boulevard Philippe Yacé, recognizing significant Ivorian figures.   

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This renaming initiative is not merely symbolic; it serves practical purposes as well. By providing clear and culturally relevant street names, the project aims to improve navigation, enhance emergency services, and facilitate economic activities such as e-commerce and banking. Furthermore, it seeks to instill a sense of pride and ownership among citizens by reflecting their heritage and honoring national heroes. 

Ivory Coast’s efforts are part of a broader trend across West Africa, where countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have undertaken similar initiatives to replace colonial-era names with those of local heroes and significant figures. These actions represent a collective move towards reclaiming national narratives and asserting post-colonial identities. 

While the initiative has been largely welcomed, some concerns have been raised about the potential neglect of informal settlements and the need for inclusive implementation. Urban planners emphasize the importance of ensuring that all areas, including underdeveloped neighborhoods, are incorporated into the addressing project to avoid further marginalization. 

In summary, Ivory Coast’s street renaming project marks a significant step in redefining its cultural landscape and asserting its post-colonial identity. By honoring national figures and values, the country is not only improving its urban infrastructure but also fostering a renewed sense of pride and unity among its citizens.