No more informal and unsanitary conditions in the sanitation sector. The Ivorian government took a decisive step on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 , by adopting a landmark decree. The objective is clear: to transform access to public toilets from a daily struggle into a quality service, governed by strict regulations.

A legal framework for a health emergency

Until now, finding clean urinals or toilets in Abidjan or Bouaké was a real challenge. To address this lack of organization, the new legislation now imposes strict hygiene and urban planning standards . The aim is not simply to provide a service, but to ensure that these facilities respect user health and environmental protection.

What changes in concrete terms?

The reform primarily targets high-traffic areas such as markets, bus stations, and public squares . Here are the new pillars of this regulation:

1. Mandatory authorization: The operation of sanitary facilities, whether on public or private property, now requires prior approval from the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene .
2. Quality of infrastructure: Facilities must blend harmoniously into the urban landscape and meet high construction standards.
3. Enhanced controls: The administration is strengthening its technical monitoring to ensure that cleanliness is not an option, but an obligation.

A gradual compliance

What will happen to the existing facilities? The government is banking on a transition rather than a sudden break.

Current managers will not be forced to close immediately, but will have to implement a phased approach to meet current standards. The continuation of their business will be subject to strict technical and administrative audits.

With this decree, Ivory Coast intends to professionalize an essential service, while sustainably improving the image and cleanliness of its major cities.