User:Mayalekhni/Abidjan

Abidjan is the Economic Capital of the Ivory Coast (the Administrative Capital is Yamoussoukro), as well as being the most populous city in French-speaking Western Africa. As of 2006, it has a total population of 5,068,858 within the metropolitan area, with 3,796,677 inhabitants in the city alone. In the region, this is second only to Lagos, the previous English Capital of Nigeria. Abidjan is considered the cultural crossroads of West Africa.

History edit

Abidjan is the third city to be the capital of the Ivory Coast, after Grand-Bassam and Bingerville, which it is now considered a suburb of. Its populace, the Tchaman, were renamed ébrié, derived from the "quolibet" given to the lagoon pirates by the inhabitants of Grand-Bassam. As such, in their tongue, ébrié means "salty/dirty skin"...

Under the direction of the engineer, Houidaille, Bingerville was created in 1899. Following an epidemic of Yellow Fever, the colonies of Grand-Bassam decided to relocate here because of its healthy atmosphere. This was also when the Colonial government started its relocation to the remote village of Adjamé, which would be come to be named Bingerville after the first governor of the colonies, Louis-Gustave Binger.

The future Abidjan, nearby, also situated by the Lagune n'doupé (Lagoon of Warm Waters, the future ébrié Lagoon) offered more space and greater possibilities for commercial expansion. The Petit-Bassam Wharf, the current Port Bouët, south of the metropolitan area, grew rapidly in competition with the Grand-Bassam Wharf, until then the principal economic gateway for the colony. In 1904, when Bingerville had not yet been completed, Abidjan became the principal economic pillar of the Ivory Cost colonies, a privileged relay point for distribution of European goods further inland, notably by and increasingly important Lebanese community.

On 10 August 1933, a decree was passed, moving the capital from Bingerville to Abidjan (or Abidjean), displacing many Tchaman villages, which moved mostly to Adjamé, the "confluence" or "centre" for Tchaman, located north of the Plateau and which again became the chief Tchaman community. It is here that the community lost the "Sacred Drum" (A very characteristic drum which is currently in the possesion of the Musée de l'Homme - the Museum of Man) as currency of blackmail, to force Tchaman participation in the construction of the Abidjan_Niger Railway system.

South of the Plateau District, currently the central district of the Abidjan metropolitan area, the village of Dugbeyo was moved to the other side of the Lagoon, in Anoumabo, "the forest of the dogfish", which would later become the district of Treichville in 1934, renamed in honour of Marcel Treich-Laplène (1860-1890), the first explorer of Ivory Coast and its first colonial administrator, considered its founder. Where Dugbeyo once stood, today the Avenue Treich-Laplène serves as the main bus and ferry terminal, and is also the location of Avenue Charles de Gaulle, commonly called Commercial street.

The city is designed along the usual colonial guidelines, on the basis of rather Utopian town-planning. The colonists inhabit The Plateau ("m'brato" in the Tchaman language) while the colonized people live in the north. The two zones were separated by the Gallieni Military Barracks, where the current Law Courts are located.

The Boulevard de Marseille originates close to the port, along a Bowling Ground. Behind the first oil mills of Blauhorn, in Cocody, you can find the historical rue de la Canebière. Allegedly, facetious colonists who had "borrowed" the street sign of a famous Marseilles street, renamed it "Canebière Street" - a track of sand. A hippodrome is built in the south of the city which is being constantly being expanded.

In 1931, the Plateau and Treichville (which became Commikro, "the city of clerks") were roughly connected by a floating bridge at the Place du Pont Houphouët Boigny. In this year, the first of the street addresses of Abidjan were set up. These remained in place until in 1964. At the whim of mayor Conan Kanga, they were (badly) supplemented with the American system in 1993.

In the 1940s and 50s, like Cairo, Tangier, and Istanbul, Abidjan became a part of popular imagination as a nest for spies and hooligans.

In 1951, the colonial authorities decided to build the Vridi Canal from the sea to the lagoon so that ships could access the port at Abidjan, causing a drop in temperature of the hot waters of the Lagoon n'doucé. Abidjan now entered a long phase of splendour which would last until the 1980s.

After independence, in 1960, the old colonial cities became administrative and business centres, as well as the Presidential Seat. The southern areas of Treichville, towards the international airport and the beaches, became the district for Europeans, and the middle class Abidjanian. It is here that the anti-French riots of November 2004 would be concentrated. The Cocody district, famous for a gentleman embodied in cinema by Jean Marais, and which, as per the colonial urban plan, was to be a vast indigenous district, became a smart district which contained the Presidential Residence, the French Embassy, the Ivory Hotel and, since 2005, the largest US Embassy in Africa. Large working class zones developed between these poles, extended by precarious living conditions, feeding off the misery caused by rural migration and exploitation of sub-regional migration.

Since 1980, Thanks to negligent civil servants and corruption, in spite of undeniable modernization, one witnesses a general degradation of Abidjan and an amplification of its pollution. In 2006, the massive intoxications of the populations by polluting products poured in the refuse tips are an illustration and an inevitable drama.

Since 1999, this city, once known as the Pearl of Lagoons is being penalized by national political and economic disasters.

In 1983, the village of Yamoussoukro (literally the town of Yamoussou), became the new capital of Ivory Coast under president Felix Houphouët-Boigny, who wanted to transform his native village into the Brasilia of the African Savannah. The new capital, an important crossroads as well as an active commercial pillar, however never carried shade to Abidjan.

Abidjan did not exist before the 20th century edit

Abidjan did not exist before the start of the 20th century. In 1950, it had just exceeded the threshold of 50,000 inhabitants (at the end of 1948). To reach a population of a million by the end of the year 1975, a growth rate of 10 to 12 % per annum would be required, which corresponds to a doubling every 6 or 7 years. But this curve underwent a sharp inflection due to the crisis of the 80s. One can suppose that, in the last 20 years of the 20th century, the growth rate will have evolved by 3 to 6%. The natural growth rate was supplemented by migratory contribution as well, with the influx being substantial and the outflow partly compensating the arrivals. Positive migration, prior to the census of 1988, contributed a growth of about 80,000 with 50,000 people from within Ivory Coast, and about 30,000 from abroad. From within Ivory Coast, the migration pattern was dominated by Akan (South-east, 48%), then Mande (North-west, 24%) and Krou (South-west, 20%). From abroad, the migration was Burkinabes (30%), Malians (22%), Ghanaians (19%), Natives of Niger (11%), of the Guineans (9%). It should be noted that of the non-African migration, Lebanese migration exceeded that of Europeans, with the French being most in number of these. All in all, non-African migration represents hardly 3% of the total population of Abidjan, which is still a record for the area.

Origin edit

Abidjan, the name by which the economic capital of Ivory Coast is known is attributed to a misunderstanding. According to an ébrié legend relating to the history of the village which gave its name to the Town of Abidjan (Abidjean at the time), an old man was returning from his field with his arms laden with branches, probably intending to repair the roof of his home, came across a European explorer who asked him the name of the nearest village. The old man, unable to speak the white man's language, believed he was asking what he did. Terrorized by this unexpected meeting, he fled, shouting: "tchan me bidjan" which means: "I have just cut sheets" in the ébrié language. The white man took this to be the answer to his question and conscientiously noted the name "Abidjan". The city began as only one small village of fishermen.

Population edit

The figures of 2006 estimate the population abidjanaise at 3,796,677 inhabitants. In 2006 the metropolitan area of Abidjan had 5,060,858 inhabitants. This increase in the population can be attributed to the displacements caused by the war (since September 2002). This city has many inhabitants who come to live downtown because they seek employment and safer lodgings.

Geographical Location edit

The Metropolitan area of Abidjan is located in southern Ivory Coast and lies between the latitudes 5°00' and 5°30' N and longitudes 3°50' and 4°10' W. It has a surface area of 57,735 ha. Abidjan is undergoing perpetual growth marked by strong industrialization and urbanization.

Urban Distribution edit

The urban distribution appears disorganized. Indeed, Abidjan, an immense city home to approximately 2,500,000 souls, has seen its population doubling every seven years since 1945. Where does such growth come from? From the future opportunities it represents for the rural people. This city, which accounts for 45% of the inhabitants of Ivory Coast and contributes to 20% of the country's population, endures a population invasion from rural peasant folk hoping for a better life. However, if a major rise has been noticed for nearly half a century, the fact remains that now this growth does not come closer than 4.5% per annum (compared to 10% from 1960 to 1990), with only about 1/3 contribution of rural migration (2/3 from 1960 to 1990). However, in spite of this fall, the city is still gigantic compared to the second most important city of the country, Bouaké (1,500,000 inhabitants) or even to the capital Yamoussoukro (100,000 inhabitants)!

Economy edit

Abidjan's principal industries are:

Agro-alimentary: coffee and cocoa, pineapple, wood, textiles, chemicals and soap
Commercial Port for Hydrocarbons, and Oil Refinery.

Energy edit

The District contributes approximately half of the national production of electricity (600 MW vs. 1200), 42% of the customers low voltage and 54% Medium Average.

Telecommunications edit

Ivory Telecom has a powerful fixed telephony network with 450,000 lines (2004), providing High speed Internet Connection, Specialised lines, and ADSL. Several Access Providers like Cote d'Ivoire Télécom, Africa On Line, Globe Access etc. operate within the city.

Traffic edit

The District has many boulevards and asphalted streets connecting the boroughs and the District with the four corners of the country. The city also boasts river transport, perhaps developed thanks to the lagoon plans.

International Infrastructure edit

Main Article:Abidjan International Airport

Airport edit

Abidjan has a substantially large international airport with the capacity to accommodate all existing large transport aircraft. Abidjan is approximately one flight hour away from most regional capitals. Abidjan is served by the most airline companies, as per most major capitals of the world.

Port edit

Abidjan has the largest port in the West African region, the second largest in Africa. Thanks to the Vridi Canal which has a depth of 15 meters, making it a deep water port, allowing boats requiring larger clearance to navigate through it as well.

Ivory Coast belongs to the Franc zone (Franc CFA), within the framework of the Economic and Monetary Union of West Africa (UEMOA). Abidjan is the economic pillar not only of Ivory Coast, but of the entire region including Burkina Faso and Mali, thanks in particular to its deep water port, opened in 1950. The harbour traffic was 12 million tons in 1995, including 5.5 in petroleum products. The headquarters of the multinational company Air Africa, Abidjan sees an air traffic of almost 900,000 passengers (1995). This city also hosts the only railroad of the area: the Abidjan-Ouagadougou line. But it is the road network (5,600 km bituminized in 1995, against 1,000 in 1970) which, today, is further supported by its substantial harbour activity. Abidjan is the centre of the country's industrial activity, with the harbour supporting nearly 60% of the national industrial activity. A special mention must be made of Abidjan's oil ambition (production, refining and distribution). All in all, Abidjan is the principal money market of French-speaking West Africa.

Diplomacy and International Organisations edit

Abidjan is the regional seat of the greatest international institutions: UNICEF, UNDP, WHO, WFP, UNOPS, FNUAP, ILO, the IMF, etc. The great nations of the world have full representation in Abidjan serving the entire region. It is in Abidjan that the American Embassy of West Africa is located, as well as the African Bank of Development (BAD) which moved for a while to Tunisia.

Stock Exchange edit

The seat of the common Stock Exchange of West Africa (BRVM), which is dominated by the companies of the Ivory Coast, is located in Abidjan.

Banking edit

Abidjan is home to representation of all the major international financial institutions: The World Bank, the IMF, BAD, BOAD, etc. Banking commission of the UEMOA, Regional Values Exchange, and subsidiaries of the large international banks: BNP, Société Générale, Crédit Lyonnais, Citibank, Chase, Barclays, etc.

The 10 Communes edit

Abidjan is sub divided into 10 communes as below:

Abobo: primarily made up of Working Class Housing.
Adjamé: Although small in size, this commune is a very important contributor to the Ivory Coast economy due to a number of commercial activities. Unfortunately, Adjamé is prone to serious health & sanitation problems.
Attécoubé: The Banco forest, a national park, is within this commune. Currently it is also known for a gigantic commercial complex, undoubtedly largest of Abidjan.
Cocody: Reputed for its residential districts (e.g.: 2-Plateau, Riviera), Cocody is also home to the University of Cocody - a publicly-owned establishment. The television house (RTI) is in Cocody. It should be noted that the President of the Republic resides in this commune.
Koumassi: the Industrial zone.
Biétry - Zone 4: Deluxe residential zone, many French live here.
Marcory: primarily residential.
The Plateau: It is a Central Business District, whose tall buildings give Abidjan a modern aspect. Although the administrative capital of Ivory Coast was moved to Yamoussoukro in 1983, republic institutions such as the Presidency and the National Assembly are still within the Plateau.
Port-Bouët: where we find the refinery (SIR) and the Felix Houphouët-Boigny International airport.
Treichville: which is home to the Port Authority of Abidjan, and the Harbour Zone (an industrial park). Also located here are various other important establishments, like the Treichville State Swimming Pool (FART), Palais Omnisport de Treichville, cultural palace, and the Abidjan Hippodrome.
Île Boulay.
Yopougon: industrial and residential parks. It is also the most populated commune of Abidjan.

Each of these communes is governed by its own Municipal Corporation, headed by a Mayor.

Abobo, Adjamé, Attécoubé, Cocody, Plateau and Yopougon are located North of the Ébrié Lagoon (called Abidjan North), on the continental side of Abidjan.

Treichville, Koumassi, Marcory and Port-Bouët form part of Abidjan South.

Blokosso and Locodjro are villages included within the city and which maintain their cultural identity in the urban environment.

Bridges edit

The two halves of the city (northern Abidjan and southern Abidjan) are connected by the Houphouët-Boigny and de Gaulle bridges. These bridges are located between Treichville and the Plateau and their capacity is definitely insufficient, especially during peak hours. A report has encouraged the government to study a project for the construction of a third bridge which should be located between Cocody and Marcory. Unfortunately, the political disturbances that the country has suffered since December 1999 have put this project out of the limelight. However, the project had begun, with inhabitants relocated, and buildings destroyed in Marcory opposite the Mille Maquis. The famous restaurant La Bâche bleue was also relocated.

Transport edit

The SOTRA (Society of Transportation, Abidjan) and the SOTU (Society of Urban Transportation) ensure regular urban transportation by means of Bus, Taxi baggage and Ligne Express train.

Modes of Transport

SOTRA Autobus
Ligne Express
Taxi SOTRA
Autobus SOTU
Ferry
Gbaka (a type of mini bus, with a capacity of about 18 passengers)
Woro-woro (a shared taxi which can carry 5 to 6 passengers)
Collective Taxi
Taxi Brousse (8-9 passengers)
Tramway

Abidjan Tramway edit

The last of the projects in Abidjan is the electric train which the Ivory Coast Railroad Company (SICF) promises. The development of infrastructure including a suburban train system in Abidjan is evaluated at nearly 100 billion Francs CFA, and should connect the North-West to the East and the North of the town of Abidjan. This project extends 25 kilometers from the current railway operated by Sitarail (a subsidiary of the Bolloré group). Infrastructure works were estimated to cost 40 billion Francs CFA financed by the State of Ivory Coast, and the backers (World Bank and AFD). In addition, a BOT-type concession contract for 20 to 30 years would be allotted to a private contractor for the operation of the network. This operator will undertake the acquisition and transportation of material, restoration of workshops, and installation of the operating system. The contract has been evaluated at 60 billion Francs CFA.

Education edit

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Politics edit

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Culture edit

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Cinema edit

Christian-Jaque's Le Gentleman de Cocody, released in 1965, starring Jean Marais, Phillipe Clay and Liselotte Pulver.
Eliane Delatour's Bronx-Barbès, released in 2000.
Rue Princesse, by Henri Duparc, with Félicité Wouassi, Akissi Delta, Gérard Essomba released in 1994.
Marie-Louise Asseu's Un Homme pour Deux Sœurs, released in 2007.
Danger Permanent

Tourism edit

Abidjan is a unique city of Africa. Its various nicknames - "Manhattan of the tropics", "Little Manhattan", "Pearl of the Lagoons", or "Paris of Africa" - explain, unpredictably, the city's image. Its buildings, hotel & sporting facilities, night life, and transport as well as its monumentality, make it a perfect city for the tourism business.

Sports edit

Of all the national sports of Ivory Coast (Basketball, Athletics, Rugby, Handball, Volleyball, etc.), notably football is essentially Abidjanais, and many clubs of Ivory Coast are located in Abidjan. Two of the best clubs in the history of national football, which currently dominate the Championship of Ivory Coast (ASEC Mimosas and Africa Sports National), are located here.

Football edit

Basketball edit

Sports Complexes edit

Football and Rugby Stadium :
Others
- Palais omnisport de Treichville

The big Project edit

An Olympic Complex of 80,000 to 100,000 seats is envisaged, according to the leaders of Ivory Coast, in order to offer a better national stage to the Elephants, the national Football Team. In addition to areas dedicated for the main Olympic disciplines (Football, Athletics, Swimming, Equipment, etc.), the complex will also include restaurants, businesses, auditoriums, conference rooms, a hotel, and other entertainment venues for the sports people. Since football began in Ivory Coast, it is believed that the national team deserves a better stage. The problem with Félicia, the current state venue, is that it is impossible to expand because of its location.

The Olympic complex project is currently suspended, due to a lack of investors.