Gaoussou Toure
Minister of Transport
Transport / Cote d'Ivoire
Next stop, expanding transport links
Multibillion dollar investments in the Port of Abidjan have ensured Côte d’Ivoire’s role as a regional trade hub. Now the nation plans to continue establishing stronger industrial infrastructure, while placing greater emphasis on transport links. Minister of Transport Gaoussou Toure tells us what to look for next.
What projects best define the future of Côte d’Ivoire?
Our flagship projects emphasize the national desire to establish better links with neighbours, as well as infrastructure for sustainable urban growth. For example, the Abidjan metro system, a 37-kilometre light rail due to open in 2020, is a necessary tool for inclusive urban growth. Then there is the rail line from San Pedro, Côte d’Ivoire’s second port, to Bamako, the Malian capital. In total, my ministry is overseeing 22 such projects that aim to reinforce the national mission to become a regional hub.
What models of development are working best?
The build, operate and transfer and public-private partnership models seem to work best for both investors and the country, as they reinforce missions of sustainability, long-term partnerships and growth. Today, this is why 90% of our projects are managed using the BOT model.
Are investors ready for the BOT and PPP models?
Intelligent investors understand that there is a limit to what the state can borrow. Our key infrastructure is in place, so now a new style of partnership is needed.
