10 fun and interesting Ivory Coast facts

1. A West African Nation With a Rich Culture

The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire, commonly known as Ivory Coast, is a West African nation located on the Gulf of Guinea. It is bordered by Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana. The country is home to over 24 million people, and its official language is French. The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire gained independence from France in 1960, and its capital city is Yamoussoukro. The country is known for its diverse culture, vibrant economy, and beautiful beaches.

Also → Ghana: Gateway to the Rest of West Africa

2. Ivory Coast's Dual Capitals Offer Unique Perspective

The Republic of Cote d'Ivoire is unique in that it has two official capitals: Yamoussoukro, the political and administrative capital, and Abidjan, the economic capital. Yamoussoukro is home to the country's government and is the seat of its political power, while Abidjan is the economic hub of Ivory Coast, boasting a bustling port and a vibrant business sector. Together, these two cities form the backbone of the country, providing the necessary infrastructure for its continued growth and development.

Also → Mali Uses the West African CFA Franc as its Currency

3. West African Plains & Mountains

Ivory Coast is a West African country covering an impressive 124,502 square miles. Its terrain is mostly flat, with undulating plains and mountains in the north-west. The largest city in the country is Abidjan, which covers an area of 981 square miles. It is a bustling port city and the economic hub of the country, with a population of over 4 million people. Abidjan is home to a variety of attractions, including the St. Paul's Cathedral, the National Museum of Abidjan, and the Banco National Park.

Also → Guinean Capital Conakry is a vibrant city

4. A culturally diverse country

Ivory Coast is a culturally diverse country, with Akan people making up the largest ethnic group at 42.1%. Following closely behind are the Voltaiques or Gur at 17.6%, Northern Mandes at 16.5%, Krous at 11%, and Southern Mandes at 10%. The remaining population is made up of Lebanese and French people.

Also → Republic of Guinea-Bissau

5. Ivory Coast's Official Currency: The Franc

The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the official currency of Ivory Coast. It is divided into 100 centimes, and is used in 8 countries in West Africa, including Ivory Coast. The franc is issued by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), and is pegged to the euro at a rate of 1 euro = 655.957 CFA francs.

Also → Explore São Tomé's Finest Cocoa Beans!

6. A West African Country With Many Languages

The Ivory Coast, officially known as the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, is a West African country located on the Gulf of Guinea. It is bordered by Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana. French is the official language of the Ivory Coast, and is spoken by the majority of the population. It is also one of the official languages of the African Union, and is used in government, education, and business. Additionally, many Ivorians also speak a variety of local languages, including Baoulé, Dioula, and Cebaara Senufo.

Also → Togo: Ag Sector Powers Income, Jobs

7. Islam is the dominant religion in Ivory Coast

In Ivory Coast, Islam is the dominant religion, with a majority of the population adhering to its teachings. Christianity is the second most popular religion, with a significant portion of the population following its beliefs. Both religions have a long history in the country, with Islam having been present since the 11th century and Christianity since the 19th century. Both religions have had a major influence on the culture and society of Ivory Coast, and continue to do so today.

Also → Burkina Faso: A Country with a Unique Currency

8. Major Player in the Global Agricultural Market

The Ivory Coast is a major player in the global agricultural market, producing and exporting large quantities of coffee, cocoa beans, and palm oil. Fishing and forestry are also important industries in the country, providing employment and contributing to the economy. In fact, the Ivory Coast is the world's largest producer of cocoa beans, and the second-largest producer of coffee and palm oil. This makes it a key player in the global market for these commodities, and its importance to the world economy is undeniable.

Also → Vibrant Malabo: Capital of Equatorial Guinea

9. Major Exporter of 6 Goods

Ivory Coast is a major exporter of rice, wheat, plastic materials, resins, agricultural chemicals and oil and gas equipment. It is also a major importer of cocoa and cocoa products, coffee, rubber and petroleum. The country's agricultural sector is a major contributor to its economy, with rice and wheat being the two most important exports. Additionally, the country's oil and gas industry is a major source of revenue, with oil and gas equipment being exported to other countries. The country's imports of cocoa and cocoa products, coffee, rubber and petroleum are also essential to its economy, as they are used to produce a variety of goods and services.

Also → Cape Verde: A Small Island Nation Off the Coast of West Africa

10. Ivory Coast celebrates national holiday on August 7th

Every year on August 7th, the people of Ivory Coast come together to celebrate their independence from France, which was achieved on this day in 1960. This national holiday is a time for the citizens of Ivory Coast to reflect on their history and to honor the hard-fought struggle for freedom that led to the country's independence. It is a day of celebration, with parades, fireworks, and other festivities taking place throughout the country. The day is also marked by speeches from government officials, who remind the people of the importance of their independence and the need to continue to strive for a better future.