Côte d’Ivoire has launched the Songon Parc Oriental project, a major tourism and leisure development aimed at expanding the country’s visitor economy, creating jobs and supporting local development near Abidjan.
The project was officially unveiled on June 12 in Songon-M’Brathé, west of Abidjan. Authorities describe it as a flagship tourism destination that will support economic diversification and help create a new growth hub outside the country’s commercial capital.
The development will combine tourism infrastructure with community-focused facilities. Planned components include a school, a health center, a multipurpose youth center and a foundation focused on supporting the economic inclusion of young people and women.
Tourism Minister Siandou Fofana said the project reflects the government’s commitment to building modern, inclusive and sustainable infrastructure while ensuring that surrounding communities benefit from the investment.
The first phase of the Songon Parc Oriental project will require more than CFA120 billion, equivalent to about US$212 million, and will cover 120 hectares. It will include a water park, children’s recreational facilities and a modern hotel.
Authorities estimate that the first phase will create around 3,000 direct jobs, with most expected to benefit young people from the Songon area. An additional 1,500 indirect jobs are expected in hospitality, food services and related sectors.
The second phase will include a snow and ice complex, described as a first for West Africa, as well as a conference hotel aimed at the business tourism market. A third phase will use a reserved land area for future expansion.
The project forms part of Côte d’Ivoire’s broader tourism strategy, supported by the “Sublime Côte d’Ivoire” program, digital tourism services and continued investment in tourism infrastructure.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, Côte d’Ivoire welcomed 6.7 million visitors in 2025 and generated CFA1.1 trillion in tourism revenue, equal to 8.7% of GDP. The sector also supported about 675,000 direct and indirect jobs.
The government sees the Songon project as an important tool for boosting tourism, addressing youth unemployment and promoting regional development. The foundation stone is expected to be laid in September 2026, construction is scheduled to begin in January 2027, and the complex is expected to open in October 2028.
