In the heart of the Paris International Agricultural Show (SIA 2026) , where Côte d'Ivoire is the guest of honor, the Ministry of Animal and Fisheries Resources (MIRAH) has taken a decisive step. This Monday, February 23, a strategic masterclass was launched to reshape the country's pastoral future from a decidedly economic perspective: "Creativity and Innovation for the Profitability of Livestock Farms."

The current situation: Immense, untapped potential

The observation made by Koné Songuida, coordinator of the PRO-BOVINE project, is unequivocal. While agriculture is the lifeblood of the Ivorian economy (14.8% of GDP in 2024), livestock farming remains the "poor relation" with only 1% of the total GDP .

This potential for improvement translates into a worrying dependence:

1. 51% of the meat consumed is imported.
2. 87% of dairy products come from outside the country.

However, the assets are there: a diverse livestock (cattle, sheep, pigs), a booming poultry industry and a galloping domestic demand driven by a dynamic youth.

Overcoming obstacles through innovation

To transform this sector into an engine of growth, MIRAH, under the leadership of Minister Sidi Tiémoko Touré , identifies innovation as the main lever to break the vicious cycle of low productivity.

The 5 pillars of transformation:

1. Genetic improvement: For more productive and resistant animals.
2. Nutritional optimization: Reducing food costs, the main expense item.
3. Health and Biosecurity: Effectively combating epizootic diseases.
4. Digitalization: Integrating digital tools for herd monitoring.
5. Commercial structuring: Professionalizing sales channels to guarantee profitability.

An ecosystem open to investors

The ultimate goal of this masterclass goes beyond purely technical aspects: it aims to create an attractive business environment . MIRAH invites investors to position themselves across the entire value chain.

1. Manufacturing of modern equipment.
2. Digital veterinary services.
3. Logistics, local processing and product traceability.

"Making innovation a lever for food sovereignty and economic performance." — This is the message conveyed by the Ivorian delegation at the Porte de Versailles.

The SIA 2026 continues until March 1st under the theme "Generations Solutions" , a slogan that resonates perfectly with the Ivorian ambition to become a regional leader in animal production.