Côte d’Ivoire’s FIMEC 2026: fueling economic growth through skill development
The Forum International des Métiers et des Compétences (FIMEC), held in Abidjan this month, has emerged as a cornerstone for implementing the 2026-2030 National Development Plan (NDP), bridging the gap between labor market demands and the skills cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire’s education sector. Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé emphasized this strategic alignment during the two-day event’s opening ceremony at the Abidjan Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire.
Aligning workforce development with national economic ambitions
The Prime Minister highlighted that the NDP 2026-2030 aims to accelerate industrialization, bolster economic competitiveness, nurture national champions, stimulate private investment, and generate over 3 million jobs by 2030. In this context, he framed workforce development not merely as an educational policy but as a strategic economic competitiveness tool.
« Investing in skills is equivalent to investing in enterprise productivity, economic attractiveness, and developmental sovereignty,» he asserted, underscoring how each competency cultivated contributes directly to the nation’s progress.
FIMEC as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic transformation
Under the theme « Skills, Employment, and Economic Transformation in Africa: The Strategic Role of Vocational Training », the FIMEC 2026 edition served as a vital platform for dialogue among government officials, private sector leaders, training institutions, and development partners. This collaborative environment enabled the crafting of coordinated solutions to address employment challenges, skill gaps, and economic transformation needs.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a robust ecosystem where vocational training aligns seamlessly with national development priorities. He stated, « Our goal is to cultivate an environment where professional training fully supports economic competitiveness, drives innovation, and accelerates industrialization.»
Empowering youth through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship
Highlighting the urgency of equipping young people with essential competencies, the Prime Minister declared that the FIMEC embodies the nation’s resolve to create opportunities for every youth to thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth. He framed this as a guiding principle behind government reforms and actions:
« Our mission is to create conditions where every young person can acquire the skills to succeed, innovate, and actively participate in national development. This vision steers our reforms and unites us today around FIMEC.»
A future built on human capital and innovation
The Prime Minister stressed that the rapid evolution of global economies and the continuous reinvention of professions demand proactive measures. Côte d’Ivoire, he noted, is committed to anticipating these changes by prioritizing investments in human capital—the nation’s most valuable asset.
He concluded with a rallying call: « Together, let us position skills as the primary driver of economic competitiveness, sovereignty, and shared prosperity.»
The two-day FIMEC 2026 featured high-level panels, exhibitions, and interactive sessions designed to foster collaboration and innovation in skills development and employment.