The Armed Forces of Côte d’Ivoire, in collaboration with the French Armed Forces, will conduct a joint military exercise, Touraco 2026, across multiple cities in Côte d’Ivoire, signalling continued security cooperation between the two nations. The operation, scheduled from April 7 to May 15, will take place in Abidjan, Assini, Gagnoa, Sassandra, and Yamoussoukro, involving both air and ground forces with military vehicles and aircraft expected to operate day and night.
According to the FACI, the exercise is part of ongoing military cooperation and aims to strengthen operational readiness and coordination between the two forces. Authorities noted that the drills may result in increased noise levels and visible troop movements, advising residents not to panic and to continue their daily activities as normal. The exercise comes as Côte d’Ivoire steps up efforts to enhance national security preparedness ahead of key national events, including the 2025 presidential election.
From a geopolitical perspective, the joint exercise reflects France’s continued military engagement in West Africa, even as it has reduced its footprint in the Sahel region following withdrawals from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Côte d’Ivoire remains a key partner for France in the region, hosting French military forces and serving as a hub for counterterrorism operations. The exercise demonstrates that while France’s posture in the region is evolving, it has not disengaged entirely.
The choice of locations for the exercise is strategically significant. Abidjan, the economic capital, and Yamoussoukro, the political capital, represent key national assets that would be priorities for defence. Assini, near the border with Ghana, and Gagnoa and Sassandra in the south west, are areas where military presence can support border security and coastal protection. By conducting exercises across multiple cities, the Ivorian military signals its capacity to operate across the national territory.
The timing of the exercise, ahead of the 2025 presidential election, suggests an intent to demonstrate security preparedness. Elections in Côte d’Ivoire have historically been periods of heightened tension, and the military’s ability to maintain order and respond to threats is critical to electoral credibility. The joint exercise with French forces allows the Ivorian military to test coordination procedures and build confidence in its capabilities.
For residents of the affected cities, the exercise may cause temporary disruptions, including road closures, noise, and visible military presence. The authorities’ communication advising against panic is intended to prevent misinformation and ensure that daily economic activities continue with minimal interruption. Businesses in areas where exercises are taking place should plan for potential delays and communicate with employees about adjusted schedules.
