Thousands left homeless as homes in Ivory Coast’s main city demolished due to alleged health concerns

The bustling city of Abidjan in Ivory Coast is facing a crisis as hundreds of homes are being demolished in a wave of destruction that has left many families homeless. The government claims the demolitions are necessary due to public health concerns, as the poor areas along the lagoon are prone to deadly floods during the rainy season.

Dame Touré, a mother of three, was forced to watch as her home was reduced to rubble, leaving her and her children without a place to live. The demolitions have affected hundreds of thousands of residents in impoverished suburbs, with many being evicted without prior notice or compensation.

The government has defended the demolitions, stating that relocations to safer areas have begun. However, many families remain homeless and stranded in various parts of the city. Rights groups have condemned the demolitions, calling them brutal and causing disastrous consequences for vulnerable families.

Despite promises of support and compensation from the government, many evicted residents feel overwhelmed and helpless. The city officials claim the demolitions are part of a broader project to reconstruct and provide basic amenities in the areas, offering leased land to those evicted for a nominal fee.

As the demolitions continue to stir outrage and protest, President Alassane Ouattara has called for solidarity and social peace. However, for families like Touré’s, the future remains uncertain as they struggle to find a place to call home in their own country.