Land disputes and legal challenges surrounding property ownership have reached alarming levels in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly within the Grand Abidjan area. For many residents, finding available land has become akin to running a marathon, rife with obstacles and frustrations. Currently, the price for plots measuring 200 square meters can range from six to ten million CFA francs, with choice locations elevated even higher. The high demand for land, driven by the concentration of infrastructure and businesses, has led to bitter conflicts over ownership, as shady landowners exploit loopholes to sell the same plots to multiple buyers, resulting in prolonged legal battles.
One notable case involves Annick AKA-ADJO, the daughter of the late renowned Ivorian architect Raymond AKA-ADJO. She has become embroiled in what she describes as illegal expropriation concerning her property at Riviera Anono. According to her testimony, "Mon père m’a donné un terrain à la Riviera : le lot 50, îlot 7 à Anono Palmeraie deuxième tranche, sur les 35 hectares." The original allocation letter for her land, dated back to 2002, has been challenged, as she claims the mayor of Bingerville, Issouf Doumbia, has unlawfully installed himself on her plot without her consent. Further complicity arose when she alleged documents were falsified to strip her of her land rights.
Annick detailed how, following her father’s passing, ambiguities arose, leading to the issuance of new allocation letters, which she alleges were done unbeknownst to her. "Je n’étais même pas en Côte d’Ivoire à cette période," she lamented, indicating her absence made it easier for others to manipulate her property rights. After exhausting all avenues for amicable resolution, Annick expressed her frustration, saying, “Il m’a dit qu’il était intouchable, d’une part parce qu’il est une personnalité du pays.” This statement raises serious concerns about the intersection of power and property rights, highlighting the precarious position of many individuals facing similar challenges.
Another poignant narrative emerges from Julie Aubin, who has been battling unauthorized construction on her legally acquired land. "Ça fait longtemps que nous avons notre terrain [...] mais depuis un certain temps, une personne anonyme fait entreprendre des travaux sur la parcelle," she explained, emphasizing the frustration caused by the lack of effective responses from authorities. Julie's situation reflects the recurring theme of helplessness, with many homeowners contemplating similar fates as their land is commandeered by unknown trespassers.
The Ivorian government's response to these cyclical conflicts has been somewhat proactive, as evidenced by efforts initiated by the Ministry of Construction since early 2024. Newly implemented reforms, including the introduction of the Attestation de Droit d’Usage Coutumier (ADUC), aim to shore up property rights and offer residents more security over their land ownership. The authorities have asserted, “Cette innovation vise à renforcer la sécurité foncière et à réduire les litiges.” This move signals recognition of the challenges faced by citizens and the necessity of creating streamlined, clear processes for land transactions.
Nonetheless, these efforts will require vigilant implementation, as issues persist within the framework of customary laws and the varying interpretations of property rights, particularly among traditional authorities. The need for clarity and precision remains greater than ever, as disputes threaten to spiral out of control, causing even more significant strife among communities.
Residents like Annick and Julie are desperate for resolutions, their compelling stories contributing to the urgent national discussion on land reform and legal clarity. Without substantial interventions and steadfast enforcement of property rights, the prospect of continued conflict looms large, affecting countless families who see their dreams of homeownership slipping away.
Moving forward, Côte d’Ivoire must arm itself not only with legal frameworks but also with genuine commitment from local and national authorities to safeguard the rights of the beleaguered residents. It is imperative for all stakeholders to engage meaningfully and to rebuild trust on both sides. Only then can the numerous land disputes be resolved and the safety of property ownership be restored.