📖 About Bouaké

Bouaké is the second-largest city in Ivory Coast and the capital of the Vallée du Bandama region. Located in the center of the country, it serves as a major commercial and transportation hub connecting northern and southern Ivory Coast.

The city is an important crossroads for trade, with markets drawing merchants from across West Africa. It is home to diverse ethnic groups including the Baoulé, Malinké, and Senufo peoples.

Bouaké played a significant role during the Ivorian Civil War (2002-2011) as the headquarters of the Forces Nouvelles rebel movement, but has since been rebuilding and developing as a regional center.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Bouaké's economy is based on trade, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing. The city is a major hub for cotton, cashews, and other agricultural products from the surrounding region.

The textile industry has historically been important to Bouaké, with the Gonfreville textile factory once being one of the largest employers. The city also serves as a regional center for commerce and transportation.

Culturally, Bouaké reflects the diversity of central Ivory Coast. The Baoulé people's traditions, including distinctive goldwork and weaving, blend with influences from northern ethnic groups.

📜 History

Bouaké was founded in the late 19th century as a French colonial administrative post. The arrival of the railway in 1912 transformed it into a major commercial center.

During the colonial era, Bouaké developed as an important agricultural and trading hub. After independence in 1960, the city continued to grow as Ivory Coast's second city.

The 2002-2011 civil war significantly impacted Bouaké, which served as the rebel capital. Since the end of the conflict, the city has been rebuilding and working toward reconciliation and development.