The 2024 Abidjan Border Forum commenced on October 23, 2024, marking a significant gathering focused on border governance, environmental cooperation, and regional security. Hosted in Côte d’Ivoire’s capital, the forum brought together dignitaries from across Africa to discuss the role of borders as opportunities for collaboration rather than barriers.
ECOWAS played a central role at the event, emphasizing the need for cross-border collaboration to achieve peace, security, and sustainable development. The organization advocates for viewing contiguous borders as gateways to integration and prosperity in West Africa.
Mr. Diakalidia Konaté, Commissioner General of the forum, expressed gratitude towards participants and stakeholders. He reiterated the forum’s mission to enhance multi-level border governance while addressing climate risks and socio-economic challenges.
Germany’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, H.E. Matthias Veltin, reaffirmed Germany’s support for regional integration and border stability. He mentioned Germany’s partnership with African states and highlighted the Integrated Border Stability Mechanism (IBSM) launched in Abidjan.
Mme Massandjé Toure-Litse of ECOWAS urged enhanced cross-border governance and financial backing amounting to sixty million francs CFA for organizing the forum. She emphasized that “borders should not divide us but rather unite us.”
General Vagondo Diomandé represented Côte d’Ivoire’s Prime Minister at the event. As Minister of Interior and Security, he stressed borders’ strategic importance in national security and regional integration. He assured continued Ivorian government support for promoting border stability.
The opening was followed by discussions on innovative solutions for regional cooperation and sustainable development.
