First Lady Dominique Ouattara inaugurates Cultural Innovation Village, emphasizes culture as a development driver for Africa

First Lady Dominique Ouattara presided over the inauguration of the Cultural Innovation Village on Monday, April 13, 2026, as part of the 14th edition of the Marché des Arts du Spectacle Africain d'Abidjan MASA d'Abidjan at the Palais de la Culture in Abidjan. During the ceremony, Mrs. Ouattara highlighted the critical role of culture in the nation's development. She extended greetings to Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie, and commended Ms. Françoise Remarck, Minister of Culture and La Francophonie, for her work in promoting Ivorian cultural heritage. The First Lady also acknowledged Mr. Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization, for his active involvement in MASA and the creation of the Innovation Village, which bridges tradition and new technologies. She paid tribute to the honorary Grand Chancellor Henriette Dagri Diabaté for her leadership in establishing MASA in 1993. Mrs. Ouattara noted that MASA has become a vital platform for African creation and performance, fostering connections between artists and promoters, and advancing cultural and creative industries as economic development engines. She emphasized that culture is not merely entertainment but also a source of unity and growth, and a significant industry. The First Lady expressed pride that this year's MASA, with its Innovation Village, showcases local talent capable of reinvention and engagement with modern technology, leading