The First Lady, Dominique Ouattara has launched the 8th edition of the festival of lights of the city of Abidjan, on Friday, December 21, 2018 on the esplanade of the Palace of Justice in Plateau. The launching ceremony of the 2018 edition was placed under the reconciliation and recorded the presence of several Government officials including Mr. Eugène Aka Aouélé, Minister of Health and Public Hygiene , Mr Sidiki Diakité, Minister of the Interior and Security, Mrs Kaba Nialé, Minister of Budget, Mrs Bakayoko Ly Ramata, Minister for Women, Family and Children and many other personalities and Ambassadors.
At 19 hours the First Lady, godmother of the event has energized the tree 30 meters high which sits between the Law Courts of Abidjan and Saint Paul Cathedral.
Giving thus through this solemn act the starting point on the one hand of the illumination of the luminaries which embellish the administrative commune of the Plateau and on the other hand, the festivities which mark the end of the year. Once again, the District of Abidjan will return in the new year adorned with its finest assets to the delight of Abidjan.
Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, godmother of the event was delighted with the choice of the theme of this edition. Indeed, for the wife of the Head of State, the colors of lights that shine brightly during these holidays will be a moment of sharing beyond any distinction. “This year, the theme chosen for the illuminations of the city of Abidjan is:” Reconciliation “. Indeed, the magnificent lights that will shine during the holidays, will be an opportunity for Ivorians to meet and share wonderful moments regardless of origin, age, religion or political affiliation. As a rallying factor and social cohesion, Abidjan Pearl of Lights really symbolizes the spirit of Christmas and the transition to the new year, with all that implies renewal and good resolutions, “said Dominique Ouattara. For Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, the illumination of the city of Abidjan is now a tradition dear to Ivorians who for eight years have been waiting for this moment. “The Festival of Lights is a flagship attraction in the hearts and minds of all Abidjan people, and it arouses the interest of young and old alike. And tonight, my joy is great to be able to live this moment of fraternity with each one of you “, rejoiced Mrs. Dominique Ouattara. She concluded by expressing the wish that 2019 be a year of peace.