Adrien Haye, outgoing director of the French Development Agency (AFD) in Côte d’Ivoire, has been awarded the National Order of Côte d’Ivoire in recognition of his four-year mission in the country. The ceremony took place on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Ministry of Economy, Finance and Budget, where Minister Adama Coulibaly presented the distinction. The event was attended by Jean-Christophe Belliard, France’s ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, along with AFD staff.
The minister, acting on behalf of President Alassane Ouattara and Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, praised Adrien Haye’s dedication to Côte d’Ivoire’s growth and development during his tenure.
A legacy of financial support and project leadership
« Over the past four years, Mr. Adrien Haye has played a pivotal role in identifying key opportunities for intervention across multiple sectors of the Ivorian economy, » stated Minister Coulibaly. « From 2022 onward, he worked tirelessly to support the government in structuring financing, designing projects, and ensuring their successful implementation. »
The outgoing director’s leadership was instrumental in securing €934 million in sovereign loans and resources from the Debt Reduction and Development Contract (C2D), strengthening the country’s macroeconomic framework. Additionally, five new sovereign loan agreements totaling nearly €500 million were signed during this period, alongside the allocation of the third C2D in alignment with the National Development Plan (PND) 2021-2025.
« These commitments have cemented AFD’s position as Côte d’Ivoire’s top bilateral partner, » the minister emphasized, highlighting Haye’s substantial contributions.
A heartfelt acknowledgment of years of collaboration
Deeply moved by the honor—his first from a foreign state—Adrien Haye expressed gratitude to Côte d’Ivoire’s leaders. Reflecting on his tenure, he reaffirmed his commitment to the nation’s progress.
« I am confident that the expanded portfolio we’ve developed, particularly in partnership with your teams, Minister, speaks volumes, » he remarked. « I will continue to advocate passionately for Côte d’Ivoire’s interests. »
This prestigious award honors four years of robust cooperation between AFD and Ivorian authorities, characterized by significant investments in the country’s economic and social advancement.