World Cup quarterfinals begin, Morocco to challenge France
via Abidjan.net7 min read
The quarterfinals of the World Cup are set to begin on Thursday, July 9, 2026. One of the highly anticipated matches will see Morocco face off against France. This comes after other significant football news, including Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from the World Cup and Roberto Martinez's resignation on July 7, 2026. Additionally, Spain eliminated Portugal with a 1-0 victory on July 7, 2026. In other news, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane led England to a 3-2 victory over Mexico, securing their spot in the quarterfinals.
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The fourth edition of the Marielordivoire International Trophies MLDI, an event promoting Ivorian excellence, intercultural dialogue, and international cooperation, is scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Grand Hotel Oslo in Norway. This edition, organized by the Nordic African Business Council and the Mutuelle des Familles des Diasporas Ivoiriennes, aims to strengthen relations between C么te d'Ivoire and Norway, and foster cooperation opportunities between Nordic countries and Africa. Fifteen new laureates will be honored for their achievements and contributions to C么te d'Ivoire's development and international standing. These individuals will join the MLDI Ambassadors community, a network embodying values of excellence, commitment, merit, and transmission. A gala dinner will gather approximately 150 guests, including diplomatic, institutional, economic, and cultural figures, academic representatives, international partners, and members of the Ivorian diaspora from various countries. MLDI, established in 2022, is a traveling international event that highlights C么te d'Ivoire and the excellent achievements of its diaspora. Previous editions were held in Paris 2022, Brussels 2023, and Milan 2024. The event celebrates individuals from diverse sectors such as entrepreneurship, research, health, arts, culture, education, media, institutions, sports, and innovation, who contribute to C么te d'Ivoire's global influence.
The International Audiovisual Content Exhibition of Abidjan SICA officially launched its 2026 talent development initiatives on Wednesday, July 8, at Latrille Events in Cocody. The ceremony brought together public authorities, audiovisual professionals, partners, and cultural and creative industry stakeholders. SICA 2026 is scheduled to take place from November 26 to 28, 2026, in Abidjan. Konat茅 Oumar, the General Commissioner of SICA, stated that this fourth edition marks a new phase in structuring the Ivorian and African audiovisual industry. He emphasized SICA's goal to support creators beyond awards by offering mentorship, funding, co-production opportunities, and access to international markets. Oumar highlighted the importance of professionals producing content that meets international standards to enhance the competitiveness of African audiovisual content. Me茂t茅 Sindou, the Director General of the Agency for Media Support and Development ASDM, noted that previous editions revealed a need for better support for project leaders. He announced a reform of the system to professionalize creators and improve project monitoring. A significant announcement for this edition is the increase in the budget for talent development, which has risen from 80 to 100 million FCFA, following instructions from the Minister of Communication. SICA organizers aim to make this platform a catalyst for the development of the audiovisual industry and the promotion of African talent.
The Banque Nationale d'Investissement BNI reaffirmed its central role in financing the Ivorian economy during the presentation activities of the National Development Program PND 2026-2030. The event took place on July 8, 2026, at the Sofitel H么tel Ivoire in Abidjan. Mr. Ouattara, an official from the banking institution, highlighted BNI's strategic positioning, stating that it aims to be a major player and a key partner for businesses and project initiators in C么te d'Ivoire. As a bank with majority public ownership, BNI naturally aligns with the state's initiatives, including the PND 2026-2030, which has an estimated budget of over 114,000 billion FCFA. This program offers significant opportunities for local businesses and allows BNI to strengthen its portfolio in key sectors such as mining, agro-industry, and projects with strong social and environmental impact. The BNI stand at the event attracted diverse visitors, including students seeking information on banking and private sector actors looking for financing solutions. Mme Coulibaly Audrey, customer service manager for individuals at the Joseph Anoma main branch, noted that students were interested in banking basics and career opportunities, while entrepreneurs focused on financial support mechanisms, particularly for public contracts related to the PND. BNI intends to act as a facilitator, providing economic operators with the tools needed to access financing and actively participate in C么te d'Ivoire's structural transf