The Ivorian Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development, and Ecological Transition, Mr. Jacques Assahoré Konan, and World Bank Vice President for West Africa, Mr. Ousmane Diagana, visited Grand-Lahou on June 28, 2025, to assess progress on critical coastal stabilization works under the West Africa Coastal Areas Management Program (WACA).

The sandbar—an essential natural barrier protecting Grand-Lahou from seawater intrusion, flooding, and soil salinization—is being reinforced through ongoing interventions. Once severely threatened by coastal erosion, the barrier now offers growing protection for the city’s homes, farmlands, infrastructure, and economic activities.

The site visit underscored the shared commitment of national authorities, the World Bank, and local stakeholders to safeguard the Ivorian coastline and build resilience in vulnerable communities. For the fishermen, farmers, traders, and families of Grand-Lahou, the stabilization efforts are more than technical—they represent long-awaited relief after years of watching the sea inch closer.

The work is a testament to how collaborative action and nature-based solutions can address the pressing challenges of coastal erosion and climate risk.