The economic hub of Ivory Coast, Abidjan is expanding fast. This rapid urban growth is straining the city's infrastructure, and authorities are struggling to keep up with all the change. Many citizens have decided not to wait for the state to mobilize and are already hard at work on making sure that sustainable development is at the heart of the new Abidjan.
Twelve-year-old Lauryn Trazier is passionate about waste reduction and participates in the organization Moi Jeu Trie, which educates schoolchildren about recycling and sorting trash. Through interactive workshops, she and her classmates learn about repurposing plastic into useful items, helping instill eco-friendly habits from an early age. Moi Jeu Trie has reached over 100 schools, fostering awareness about proper waste disposal.
Meanwhile, farmer Adama Bamba practices organic agriculture, avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides in favor of homemade natural solutions. His cost-effective and sustainable farming methods contribute to healthier food production while preserving the land.
Ferdinand Konan, manager of IVOS, focuses on waste transformation. His company recycles plastic waste and old tires, converting them into pyrolysis oil for energy use, helping promote circular economy principles.
By promoting waste reduction, sustainable farming and business practices that promote resource efficiency, they are all contributing to Abidjan’s transformation into a cleaner, more livable city.