10th Children of Africa Gala Dinner: First Lady Dominique Ouattara Raises Over 700 Million CFA Francs for Youth
Featuring musical performances, art auctions, and heartfelt moments, the 10th Children of Africa Foundation Gala Dinner lit up the Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire Convention Center on Friday, October 9, 2026.
The 10th 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 for 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, served as a reminder of the primary purpose of this charity event: to mobilize the energy and resources needed to carry out the Children of Africa Foundation’s new project for the benefit of young people.
After carrying out major initiatives to support children and women, the Foundation is expanding its scope of work with a project to create the Youth House. 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 years of commitment, having been established in 1998 to help children. She has built this journey with the support of donors, partners, and volunteers, and has gradually expanded 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 beliefs and initiatives. “My dearest, this tenth Gala is yours as well, 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 Ferkessédougou; 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 particularly highlighted the focus of this 10th edition. Indeed, this edition aims to provide even 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.
“The 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 Youth Center project is part of this effort; it will be built on a 1.6-hectare plot of land 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 Promotion, Mamadou Touré, whose department is supporting this initiative.
This call to action gave the evening a special significance. The Maison de la Jeunesse is not just another facility, but a space designed to help young people develop their skills and prepare for their future.
A musical lineup worthy of the occasion
After the First Lady’s speech, it was time for the show. The Foundation’s guests and friends were swept up in a series of performances by several renowned artists.
Tiakola, Charlotte Dipanda, Himra, and Zaho—featuring MC Solaar and Joé Dwet Filé—were among those who helped set the tone for the evening. A variety of styles took the stage, ranging from contemporary sounds to melodies and theatrical performances, much to the delight of the audience.
One of the most memorable moments was Marc Lavoine’s performance. As he sang 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 room into a massive choir, creating a moment of togetherness and nostalgia.
Over 700 million CFA francs raised through an auction
Solidarity was also on display during the traditional auction, led 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 “Souvenir de Boribana 1” by Obou Gbais. Beyond their artistic merit, these works helped rally donors in support of the Foundation’s projects.
This sale raised more than 700 million CFA francs, confirming the gala’s ability to rally significant support for Children of Africa’s social, educational, and health initiatives.
The traditional raffle also provided plenty of suspense, with a superb Kia SUV up for grabs.
Fally Ipupa, Magic System, and Chico and the Gypsies closed out the evening.