Introduction
Ivory Coast’s triumphant hosting of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) soccer competition marks a monumental milestone in the nation’s journey from turmoil to prosperity. Emerging victorious on home turf, Ivory Coast celebrated not only the triumph of its football team but also earned an impressive $7 million, representing a remarkable 40% increase in the previous competition’s winning prize. This historic event witnessed the convergence of some of Africa’s most esteemed football talents, including Nigerian sensation Victor Osimhen, valued at €110 million, alongside Egyptian hero Mohammed Salah and Moroccan standout Achraf Hakimi, each valued at €65 million. Additionally, the AFCON showcased some of the highest- paid coaches in the history of the tournament, with Djamel Belmadi leading the charge at €208,000 per month, closely followed by Rui Vitoria and Jean-Louis Gasset.
However, Ivory Coast’s journey to hosting the AFCON was not merely about football glory; it symbolized a remarkable economic turnaround. Just thirteen years ago, the nation grappled with the aftermath of a devastating civil war. Yet, on January 13, against the backdrop of Abidjan’s rejuvenated skyline, President Alassane Ouattara inaugurated the AFCON, heralding a new era of progress and prosperity. With an investment exceeding $4.56 billion, Ivory Coast embarked on an ambitious infrastructure overhaul, rejuvenating stadiums, roads, and lodging facilities across five host cities. Anticipating two million visitors, the nation aimed to showcase its reliability and safety, solidifying its stature as an economic powerhouse in West Africa.