Independence Day: August 7
Independence Day is a public holiday in Côte d’Ivoire.
After being controlled by the French as a colony since the end of the 1880s, Côte d’Ivoire acquired its independence in August 7, 1960. Félix Houphouët-Boigny was its first president and remained as such until his death in December 1993. On this day Ivoirians celebrate their independence from France and the country’s first president.
History of Independence Day in Côte d’Ivoire
France officially made Côte d’Ivoire a French colony in 1893. France held it for its rich sources of exports like coffee, cocoa, and palm oil. Plantations were firmly in the hands of the French, and Ivoirians were led into forced labor for survival.
During the first half of the 20th century, Côte d’Ivoire was part of the Federation of French West Africa, and all Ivoirians were subjects to Paris without rights of representation in France or Africa. After World War II, and in recognition of the loyalty of African countries to France during the War, the French government granted French citizenship to all Africans in colonial territories which included the right to organize political parties. However, Ivoirians found they had little room to participate in political decisions.
Educated Ivoirians quickly realized that the only way to be recognized as equals with the French was through independence from France. Félix Houphouët-Boigny formed the country’s first trade union for African cocoa farmers. He soon rose to public prominence and was elected to the French Parliament. A year later, the French abolished forced labor while Félix Houphouët-Boigny strengthened his relationship with the French, later becoming Minister in France.
By 1956 voting was equal for everyone in Côte d’Ivoire, and in 1958 the country became by referendum an autonomous member of the French Community. Shortly after on August 7, 1960, Côte d’Ivoire declared itself independent from France. Félix Houphouët-Boigny, after 13 years of service in the French National Assembly, became Cote d’Ivoire’s first prime minister in April 1959, and the following year he was elected as its first president.
Côte d’Ivoire Independence Day Traditions, Customs and Activities
Independence Day is observed nationwide in Côte d’Ivoire, and schools, offices, and general businesses are closed for the day. The day is marked by national cultural events organized locally by the government. In the capital city of Yamoussoukro there are military parades and processions in celebration of the independence of Côte d’Ivoire. During more turbulent political years, the government and opposition forces hold rallies in the streets, and the day is used as a propaganda opportunity. Parties are held all over the country with bangui, the local palm wine, and aloko, ripe banana in palm oil.
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