Meeting between BIPIA and the Guinean Community in Côte d'Ivoire: Towards a Strengthened Collaboration for African Integration

An agenda focused on three key issues

The primary goal of this meeting was to discuss and strengthen collaboration between BIPIA and the Guinean community on three major topics.

The first topic addressed the development of the "Community Cartography" project, an ambitious initiative aimed at cataloging the different foreign communities residing in Côte d'Ivoire. The Guinean country profile document was reviewed and amended by all participants to better reflect the realities of the Guinean community. During the meeting, the official decree authorizing the creation and functioning of the Guinean association was handed over to the BIPIA delegation.

The second issue, which sparked more debate, was the project for the production and sale of the "African Integration Cloth." Presented by BIPIA as a tool for promoting integration through a unifying clothing symbol, this project did not immediately win the support of President Sékou Kaba. While acknowledging the symbolic value of the initiative, he expressed concerns about the additional financial burden it could place on community members, who are already struggling with the costs of participating in various community activities. Mr. Kaba preferred to delay a decision, indicating that he wished to consult his community members before committing.

Lastly, the third point focused on gathering information about the integration model for Guinean nationals in Côte d'Ivoire. The President of the Council of Guineans Abroad described a primarily individual integration process, with each new arrival being supported by a network of compatriots already well-established in the country.

In addition to the scheduled discussions, Mr. Kaba raised the issue of the honorary title "Ambassador of Integration," which had recently been awarded to some community leaders during the African Community Days in Bouaké in July 2024. The Guinean President sought clarification on the benefits and responsibilities associated with this distinction, signaling growing interest among community leaders in recognition symbols promoting African integration.

This meeting marked a significant step in the relationship between BIPIA and the Guinean community. While certain points, particularly regarding the "African Integration Cloth" project, still require further discussion, the meeting helped to foster dialogue and lay the foundation for lasting cooperation.

The session concluded at 11 a.m., with mutual expressions of thanks. BIPIA continues its commitment to engaging with foreign communities to promote better integration in Côte d'Ivoire, through both symbolic and practical initiatives.