Côte d’Ivoire has taken a major step toward transforming its aquatic food sector with the signing of a landmark agreement that will see WorldFish establish its West Africa Regional Innovation Hub in the country. The deal represents a significant investment in science, technology and sustainable food production at a time when Côte d’Ivoire continues to face a widening gap between domestic fish supply and consumer demand.
Under the agreement, the Ivorian government will contribute $3 million and provide research and office facilities in Abidjan, Loka, Jacqueville and Mopoyem. These centres will host scientists, policy experts and technical teams working to strengthen aquaculture practices, develop new technologies and support capacity building across the region. The hub is expected to become a focal point for collaborative research that brings together government agencies, universities, private sector operators and international partners.
Côte d’Ivoire’s heavy reliance on fish imports has long been a source of concern. The country currently spends nearly $1 billion each year importing fish to meet domestic consumption needs. This dependency places pressure on foreign exchange reserves, raises food security risks and leaves consumers vulnerable to price volatility in global markets. By partnering with WorldFish, officials hope to boost domestic production, reduce the import bill and lay the groundwork for a more resilient and self-sustaining aquatic food system.
WorldFish Director General Dr Essam Yassin Mohammed praised Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to science and innovation. He noted that establishing the regional hub in the country reflects confidence in its institutional capacity, political will and strategic importance within West Africa. The organisation has been expanding its global partnerships in recent years, building collaborations with governments and multilateral agencies. Its recent partnership with Türkiye and recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organisation highlight its growing role in shaping global approaches to sustainable aquaculture.
Officials in Abidjan believe this initiative will bring long-term economic benefits. Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food production sectors worldwide, and West Africa is considered a region with high potential due to its favourable climate, expanding markets and young labour force. Minister of Animal Resources and Fisheries Sidi Tiémoko Touré said the agreement positions Côte d’Ivoire as a regional leader in aquaculture research and policy development. He emphasised that the collaboration will generate opportunities for youth employment, entrepreneurship and value chain development, supporting thousands of livelihoods.
Beyond economic gains, the project is designed to strengthen nutrition and climate resilience. Fish is a crucial source of protein and micronutrients in many West African diets. Increasing domestic production can help improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for low-income households. At the same time, research from the new hub will focus on climate-smart aquaculture solutions that reduce environmental impacts, enhance water efficiency and support sustainable farming practices. This is especially important as climate change continues to disrupt coastal ecosystems, inland water bodies and traditional fishing patterns.
The presence of a regional innovation hub in Côte d’Ivoire is also expected to elevate the country’s role in shaping policy and regulatory frameworks across West Africa. Governments across the region face similar challenges, including depleted fish stocks, rising population growth and the need to modernise aquaculture systems. By hosting the hub, Côte d’Ivoire can influence regional strategies, promote harmonised standards and support joint initiatives that improve food security for millions of people.
The agreement contributes to Côte d’Ivoire’s long-term development vision, which prioritises diversification of the economy, rural development and improved food systems. It also aligns with continental goals under the African Union’s Blue Economy Strategy, which emphasises sustainable use of aquatic resources as a driver of growth and resilience. With the support of WorldFish, Côte d’Ivoire aims to translate its natural advantages into a competitive and sustainable aquaculture industry capable of meeting domestic needs and serving regional markets.
As WorldFish strengthens its international partnerships, the establishment of the West Africa Regional Innovation Hub in Côte d’Ivoire marks one of its most significant commitments on the continent. The coming years will determine how the initiative shapes aquaculture research, policy and innovation in West Africa. For now, the agreement stands as a bold signal of Côte d’Ivoire’s ambition to lead the region toward greater food security, economic opportunity and scientific advancement.
