Côte d’Ivoire : The traditional national fabric for the 2023 AFCON officially unveiled

The fabric for the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament was officially unveiled to the Ivorian public and press on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at a hotel in Abidjan – Plateau during a ceremony attended by several figures from the sports world.

The presentation ceremony was chaired by the president of the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF), Idriss Diallo, accompanied by the advisor to the president of the Organizing Committee of the CAN (COCAN), Jacques Bernard Anouma.

This fabric combines modernity and tradition, featuring characteristics that represent African, Ivorian, and football values. To the naked eye, the fabric predominantly displays the color green, chosen in accordance with the colors of CAF, with a nod to the national flag.

One can notice the depiction of an elephant, representing the emblem of Côte d’Ivoire, and the competition mascot wearing the traditional Akan headdress.

The official fabric of the AFCON comes in two patterns (wax and Fanci), the result of a collaboration between COCAN, Uniwax, Gonfreville, and the agency Red Africa.

Addressing the press, Idriss Diallo emphasized the importance of understanding the values embodied in this fabric, which harmonizes with the traditions of the country.

He pointed out that beyond the significance of wearing this fabric, it should instill pride in every Ivorian, encouraging support and dedication to the nation, as its aspects reflect the “daily life” of its children.

In less than 16 days, Côte d’Ivoire will host the AFCON in 6 stadiums, and the authorities of the country are mobilizing across various sectors to ensure the success of the event.

Pascal Amstrong