Ivory Coast’s bustling metropolis, Abidjan, with its six million inhabitants, has recently introduced a ban on begging, a move aimed at addressing the city’s growing “urban disorder.” This new policy, as announced by the city’s vice-governor Vincent N’cho Kouaoh, encompasses a prohibition on itinerant trading on major roadways, all forms of begging, and the utilization of handcarts throughout the district. The vice-governor’s statement, which was made public on Thursday, underscores the government’s intention to enhance the living conditions of its citizens, bolster safety for both individuals and property and ensure smoother traffic flow across the city.
This decision follows remarks made in early March by Abidjan’s governor, Ibrahim Cisse Bacongo, expressing his displeasure with the presence of itinerant traders and beggars. He emphasized the need to explore alternatives to the use of handcarts for goods transportation. This is not the first time attempts have been made to regulate begging in the city; a similar initiative was undertaken in 2013 by then-Interior Minister Hamed Bakayoko, aiming to eliminate begging at city junctions, though it failed to eradicate the practice effectively.
The implementation of this ban arrives in the wake of extensive evictions and demolitions targeting precarious districts and slums, as Abidjan grapples with rapid urbanization. The city’s population has surged from three million in 1998 to six million in 2021, data from the National Institute of Statistics reveals, putting considerable pressure on the urban infrastructure and exacerbating social issues such as homelessness and poverty, which often lead to begging.
The government’s move to ban begging is part of a broader strategy to manage the challenges posed by this urban expansion. While the aim is to reduce urban disorder and improve the city’s aesthetics and functionality, there are concerns about the impact on the most vulnerable segments of the population who rely on begging as a means of survival. Critics argue that without providing viable alternatives or support systems for these individuals, such policies may merely push the problem out of sight without addressing the underlying socio-economic issues.
Moreover, the ban raises questions about the balance between urban development and social inclusivity. As Abidjan continues to evolve, finding solutions that accommodate both the city’s growth and the needs of its diverse population remains a critical challenge. This includes considering the implications of urban policies on the poor and implementing comprehensive strategies that encompass social welfare programs, affordable housing, and job creation initiatives to ensure that urban development benefits all residents, not just a select few.
As the city enforces this ban, it will be essential to monitor its effectiveness and the social repercussions closely. The success of such measures will ultimately depend on the government’s ability to implement a holistic approach to urban management, one that fosters an inclusive, sustainable, and orderly growth path for Abidjan. This entails not only regulating public spaces but also investing in social services and infrastructure that address the root causes of begging and urban disorder.
Source: The Guardian
