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Côte d'Ivoire honors Abebe Selassie, outgoing head of IMF's Africa Department

Côte d'Ivoire paid tribute to Abebe Selassie, the outgoing head of the International Monetary Fund's Africa Department, during a ceremony on April 14, 2026. The event took place on the sidelines of the spring meetings of the IMF and the World Bank in Washington, D.C. Ambassador Ibrahima Touré, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Economy, Finance, and Budget, Adama Coulibaly, conveyed the Ivorian government's gratitude for Selassie's collaboration. Ivorian authorities praised Selassie as an exceptional leader who demonstrated unwavering commitment, intellectual rigor, and a deep understanding of Africa's economic realities during his tenure. These qualities contributed to positive outcomes despite global crises and the aftermath of COVID-19. For Côte d'Ivoire, Selassie's leadership resulted in a strengthened cooperation with the IMF, fostering continuous exchanges that consolidated the country's macroeconomic stability, advanced reforms, and enhanced its resilience. Selassie also championed a vision of Africa that highlighted its innovation capabilities and potential for solutions to national economic transformation challenges. Côte d'Ivoire presented Selassie with a symbolic gift: a traditional garment from the Tonkpi region, symbolizing dignity and wisdom.