Among the three invited countries, only China has confirmed its attendance.
The independence parade is expected to feature 4,595 participants, including 3,801 members of the Defence and Security Forces (FDS) and paramilitary corps, along with 794 civilians.
This year’s celebrations will take place in Grand-Bassam, chosen for its historical significance in the struggle for independence and the sacrifices of the martyrs.
The event will revolve around the theme “Ivorian Youth and the Defence and Security Forces: Civic Commitment and Civic Responsibility.” The highest state authorities are expected to be in attendance.
Colonel-Major Charles Yake, Commander of the 1st Military Region, addressed the media on July 31, 2023, stating that the theme underscores the importance of maintaining the close relationship between the FDS and the youth.
Four key activities are planned for the festivities, starting with a friendly football match on August 6, 2024, between the FDS team and a youth team made up of former Ivorian football internationals, to be held at the Lycée d’Excellence Alassane Ouattara in Grand-Bassam.
A large concert is set to take place throughout the night at the Grand-Bassam town stadium on August 6. Moving forward, a military parade featuring aerial displays, foot formations, and motorized vehicles, followed by a parachute demonstration, will occur at the toll plaza of the Grand-Bassam motorway.
Colonel-Major Charles Yake noted that this year’s military parade will include 794 civilian participants from various institutions, including high schools of excellence and vocational schools, as well as students who excelled in national examinations, highlighting the focus on moral and civic education.
To facilitate preparations, all parade participants have been assembled in Grand-Bassam since July 31, 2024, where rehearsals are currently underway to ensure a “memorable” event for Ivorians and viewers around the world.
Colonel-Major Charles Yake also mentioned that four full-scale rehearsal parades are scheduled to take place at the Grand-Bassam motorway toll plaza starting on July 31, 2024. In addition, the military festivities anticipate participation from three foreign countries, including China.
AP/Sf/fss/abj/APA