Vridi 3 neighborhood demolitions in Abidjan

In June 2026, the Autonomous District of Abidjan began demolition operations in the Vridi 3 area, also known as the ‘Zimbabwé’ neighborhood in Port-Bouët. Authorities justified the destruction of the area, which was occupied by residents since 1963, as a necessary measure to mitigate environmental, health, and security risks associated with irregular urban occupation.

Four months after the demolitions began, displaced residents and the ‘Collectif des déguerpis’ report severe social and economic hardships. The collective claims the displacement has caused difficulties in housing, schooling, and livelihoods, and reports ten deaths since the crisis began. While the district views the actions as part of a broader urban reorganization and sanitation campaign, displaced individuals state they have received insufficient financial assistance or relocation solutions. Many have been forced into expensive private rentals or are staying with relatives. The collective is currently seeking a formal framework for dialogue with authorities to address the future of the approximately 789 identified residents.