The “Clean Air” Push in Côte d’Ivoire: Toward a More Breathable Future

Air pollution is one of Africa’s most pressing environmental and public health challenges, and Côte d’Ivoire is no exception. Through concrete initiatives led by the government in partnership with international organizations, the country is actively working to improve air quality. While there is no single, officially named “Clean Air Initiative,” the term refers to the range of national and regional actions brought together under the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, the Africa Clean Air Program, and various local projects.

Background: A Critical Public Health Issue

In Côte d’Ivoire, air pollution causes thousands of premature deaths each year. In 2016, poor air quality was linked to an estimated 34,000 deaths, a significant share of them among children. Abidjan, the economic capital, bears the brunt of the problem due to heavy traffic, waste, industrial activity, and household cooking with wood and charcoal.

These pollutants, particularly short-lived climate pollutants such as black carbon and methane, worsen both global warming and respiratory illness.

The Pillars of Ivorian Action

Côte d’Ivoire has belonged to the Climate and Clean Air Coalition for more than a decade, having joined in 2013. In 2019, it adopted an ambitious national action plan on short-lived climate pollutants, targeting a 59% cut in black carbon emissions and a 34% cut in methane by 2030. The plan spans the waste, transport, agriculture, and energy sectors.

Launched with African Union support, the continental Africa Clean Air Program reached an important milestone in Abidjan, aiming to strengthen governance, improve monitoring data, and catalyze concrete action for cleaner air.

On the ground, concrete steps in Abidjan and nationwide include the closure of the Akouedo landfill, a powerful symbol in the fight against waste-related emissions; the 2018 Abidjan air pollution reduction strategy, which mapped high-risk zones and set out regulations and a monitoring plan; clean mobility measures, including limits on the age of used vehicles, promotion of soot-free buses and electric vehicles, and improved fuel quality through reduced sulfur content; clean cooking pilot projects using electric pressure cookers to cut indoor pollution; and strengthened air quality monitoring and data capacity.

Côte d’Ivoire also takes an active part in continental efforts through its African Clean Air Network membership, including events such as the 2025 GEIA conference in Abidjan, which reinforced scientific and policy cooperation.

Expected Impact and Challenges

Full implementation of these measures could save more than 1,000 lives a year through reduced pollution alone, while contributing significantly to the country’s climate goals under its Nationally Determined Contributions.

Challenges remain, however: a lack of precise data in some areas, funding gaps, rapid urbanization, and continued reliance on traditional energy sources. Public awareness and private sector involvement will be essential to success.

Conclusion: A Promising Commitment

Côte d’Ivoire’s clean air efforts illustrate an integrated approach linking health, environment, and sustainable development. Through international partnerships and local action, the country is charting a path other African nations can follow.

Every citizen can contribute, whether by adopting sustainable mobility habits, supporting clean energy, or calling for greater transparency on air quality. Breathing cleaner air by 2040 isn’t a dream — it’s a goal within reach if the current momentum holds.