Launched in late 2022, the Social Cohesion Project for the Northern Regions of the Gulf of Guinea (COSO) is now fully operational. With brand-new infrastructure, job creation, and strengthened peace, populations in border areas are emerging from isolation. This is a mid-term assessment of an initiative that is restoring hope to thousands of Ivorians.

A shield against regional fragility

Born from a shared commitment between Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Togo , with support from the World Bank , the COSO project addresses the root causes of instability. In Côte d'Ivoire, 87.9 billion CFA francs are being invested between 2022 and 2027 to strengthen the resilience of 10 northern regions (Poro, Tchologo, Bounkani, etc.) in the face of conflict and climate change.

The objective is clear: to leave no one behind. As expert Léandre Yaméogo pointed out in January 2026, the method is based on a participatory approach . The communities themselves, through the Regional Commissions (CRAS), identify their priority needs.

The numbers speak for themselves: a solid mid-term assessment

A joint evaluation mission (World Bank/Project Coordination) conducted in January 2026 revealed the extent of achievements as of December 31, 2025:

1. Infrastructure: 917 socio-economic projects already delivered and 529 others under construction.
2. Employment: 43,392 jobs created, benefiting mainly young people (57%) and women (46%) .
3. Key sectors: Market gardening, livestock farming, transport, product processing and trade.

Table: Examples of investments by area

Region / District	Number of sub-projects	Investment validated
Gontougo	150 projects	—
Worodougou	—	1.5 billion FCFA
Zanzan	—	12 billion FCFA
Bounkani	75 projects	—

The daily lives of the people transformed

COSO is not just about numbers; it is a concrete life change for the inhabitants of the North.

1. Education and Health: The Return of Basic Services

No more long walks to get medical treatment or study. Clinics have opened in Sahandala and Tissié , while a modern health center now serves Touba . On the education front, local primary and secondary schools (like those in Soko and Kani ) allow children to return to school in decent conditions.

2. Water and the Economy: Regaining Autonomy

Access to drinking water has been improved by the installation of hydraulic pumps (Bondoukou, Kong). To boost the rural economy, four markets have been planned in Bafing , including those in Dessené and Niokosso, which are already operational.

3. Culture and Sport: The cement of cohesion

The project also focuses on intangible elements. Balafon festivals in Korhogo, football tournaments in Séguéla, and sports walks in Bouna... these events aim to break down mistrust and strengthen community cohesion. In October 2025, community leaders in Minignan were also trained in conflict management, a crucial tool for ensuring peaceful electoral periods.

Testimonial: "A true renaissance"

In Biégnon , a long-forgotten border village with Burkina Faso, emotions are running high. Dah Robert, a resident, testifies:

"The village was practically abandoned. There was no school, no future. Today, thanks to COSO, children are studying, women are collaborating, and our young people are finally regaining hope."

Conclusion

With two years remaining until its scheduled completion in 2027, the COSO project has established itself as a pillar of the National Development Plan (NDP). By transforming vulnerable areas into hubs of local growth, it demonstrates that regional solidarity is the most effective weapon against poverty.