With musical performances, art auctions, and heartfelt moments, the Children Of Africa Foundation’s 10th Gala Dinner lit up the Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire Convention Center on Friday, October 9, 2026.
The 10th edition of the Children of Africa Foundation Gala Dinner lived up to all expectations. Under the theme “Lights of Africa: Together for a Youth That Shines,” this year’s event brought together the First Ladies of the Republic of Angola, Mrs. Ana Afonso Dias Lourenço, and of the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Nathalie Villette-Wadagni, as guests of honor at the Gala Dinner, along with numerous Ivorian and international dignitaries, all united by a common cause: the construction of the Youth House.
But behind the glitz and glamour, the message delivered by the First Lady, Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, reiterated the primary purpose of this charitable event: to mobilize the energy and resources needed to bring the Children of Africa Foundation’s new project to fruition for the benefit of young people.
After launching major initiatives to support children and women, the Foundation is expanding its scope of work with a project to create the Maison de la Jeunesse. Located in Treichville, this new facility will be a space dedicated to learning, culture, sports, recreation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
Mrs. Dominique Ouattara Pays Tribute to President Alassane Ouattara
In her speech, the First Lady reflected on the Foundation’s 28-year commitment, having been established in 1998 to assist children. She has built this journey with the support of donors, partners, and volunteers, gradually expanding its scope to include mothers and at-risk youth.
She made a point of paying special tribute to her husband, President Alassane Ouattara, whom she described as a constant source of support for her convictions and initiatives. “My dearest, this tenth Gala is also yours, and I would like to dedicate it to you,” she said in an emotional moment.
Beyond this personal tribute, Ms. Dominique Ouattara emphasized that the Foundation’s commitment is rooted in a vision of lasting solidarity. Since its inception, Children of Africa has helped build several major infrastructure projects in Côte d’Ivoire, including the Bingerville Mother-and-Child Hospital, the shelters for children in distress in Soubré, Bouaké, and Ferkessdougou; the Abobo School of Excellence; the Bingerville Community Center; and the “Safe Home” Women’s Shelter in Adiake.
Youth: The Foundation’s New Priority
Mrs. Dominique Ouattara’s speech focused particularly on the direction set for this 10th edition. Indeed, this edition aims to provide greater support to young people. For the First Lady, the children who have benefited from the Foundation’s programs have now become young adults seeking education, guidance, and prospects for the future.
“Our children of yesterday have become the youth of today,” she noted, emphasizing the need to adapt the Foundation’s initiatives to the needs of this new generation.
The Maison de la Jeunesse project fits into this vision; it will be built on a 1.6-hectare lot along the lagoon, in the heart of Abidjan. The facility will have 3,604 m² of floor space and nearly 7,500 m² of landscaped outdoor areas. It is designed to provide young people with an environment conducive to education, creativity, entrepreneurship, sports, and culture.
To bring this project to fruition, the Foundation plans to raise 5 billion CFA francs. The First Lady expressed her confidence in the generosity of donors and thanked the Minister of Youth Development, Mamadou Touré, whose department is supporting this initiative.
This call for support gave the evening special significance. The Youth Center is not merely another piece of infrastructure, but a space designed to help young people develop their skills and prepare for their future.
A musical lineup worthy of the occasion
Following the First Lady’s speech, it was time for the show. The Foundation’s guests and friends were treated to a series of performances by several renowned artists.
Tiakola, Charlotte Dipanda, Himra, Zaho featuring MC Solaar, and Joé Dwet Filé, among others, helped set the tone for the evening. A variety of styles unfolded, ranging from contemporary sounds to melodies and stage performances, much to the delight of the audience.
One of the most memorable moments was Marc Lavoine’s performance. By performing his famous song “Les Yeux revolver,” the French artist took the audience on a trip down memory lane. Sung in unison by the guests, this iconic song transformed the hall into a massive choir, creating a moment of togetherness and nostalgia.
Over 700 million CFA francs raised through auctions
Solidarity was also demonstrated through the traditional auction, hosted by Maître Julien-Vincent Brunie of Christie’s and Maître Jean-Noël Sampah, auctioneer.
Guests had the opportunity to view and purchase works by internationally renowned artists, including a painting titled “Family Chat” by Aboudia, a sculpture titled “Pyramid” by Dominique Zinkpè, a magnificent diamond necklace by Édouard Nahum, and a painting titled “Memories of Boribana 1” by Obou Gbais. Beyond their artistic merit, these works helped rally donors in support of the Foundation’s projects.
The auction raised over 700 million CFA francs, confirming the gala’s ability to mobilize significant support for Children of Africa’s social, educational, and health initiatives.
The traditional raffle also provided plenty of excitement, with a superb Kia SUV up for grabs.
Fally Ipupa, Magic System, and Chico and the Gypsies to Close Out the Evening
The evening concluded with another series of concerts. Fally Ipupa, the band Magic System, and Chico and the Gypsies took the stage to keep the party going in a festive atmosphere.
This musical finale added a final touch of brilliance to an event that successfully combined entertainment with a commitment to solidarity.
A night of light, certainly, but above all a widespread mobilization in support of the youth called upon to take their rightful place in the future of Côte d’Ivoire and Africa.
