The Ministry of Justice and Human Rights officially launched an ambitious program on Thursday, July 9, 2026, in Abidjan, aimed at young residents of the Juvenile Observation Centers (COM) in Abidjan and Bouaké. Combining social, educational, and sporting activities with psychological support, this initiative aims to promote their social reintegration and break the cycle of recidivism.

A legal and human framework

Presiding over the ceremony on behalf of the Minister of Justice, technical advisor Blandine Abadi noted that this project embodies Côte d'Ivoire's commitment to international standards. It aligns, in particular, with Article 47 of the United Nations Rules for the Protection of Minors Deprived of Their Liberty, which has been incorporated into Ivorian law through Decree No. 2023-239 on prison regulations.

"It is in accordance with these provisions that we organize these activities so that the minor can regain confidence in himself, better reintegrate into society and acquire professional skills that he can use when he leaves," the magistrate emphasized.

A dual action plan financed by the AFD

Funded to the tune of 300,000 euros (approximately 185 million FCFA) by the French Development Agency (AFD) under the third Debt Reduction and Development Contract (C2D-3), this project will span two years.

According to Ouby Guémolé, representative of the AFD, the program is structured around two major axes:

1. Direct support for minors through diverse workshops (painting, theatre, storytelling, music, gardening, sewing and sport).
2. Strengthening the skills of the staff and professionals supervising these centers.

Healing trauma to rebuild the future

Beyond learning and leisure activities, mental health support is the central pillar of this intervention. Zouzoua Coulibaly, representative of the group of civil society organizations responsible for field deployment, emphasized the absolute necessity of this therapeutic support.

“When they arrive here, they are somewhat traumatized,” she explained. “We will have psychological support that will allow these children to express themselves, to talk about what they are going through.” By giving them a voice, the project aims to help these young people overcome their past traumas, develop new social skills, and look forward to a brighter future.