(Ecofin Agency) - The 6th Salon de l'épargne et de l'investissement et du patrimoine kicked off on November 9, in Abidjan. Announced months ago, the forum gathers several stakeholders–VIPs, youths, and experts–to discuss savings, investment, and business creation.

The sixth edition of the Salon de l'épargne, de l'investissement et du patrimoine (SEIP) opened in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on November 9. The launching ceremony was held at Abidjan's Sofitel Hotel Ivoire, and recorded the participation of top finance and political figures of the country.

Speaking at the opening, the Ivorian Minister for Youth Promotion, Mamadou Toure, underlined the need to provide the youth with "financial education". The official also pointed out the event’s relevance relative to the Ivorian government's ambitions, especially regarding the support of businesses owned by young Ivorians.

The theme of the event is "From Youth to Wisdom: mastering finances at every stage of Life". It coincides with the celebration of the "Year of Youth" announced by the Ivorian government. In this framework, the country took several steps to meet the needs of its youth; these include mobilizing $424 million to launch the first phase of the Government Youth Program (PJ Gouv1).

In addition to these public initiatives, private events such as SEIP provide multi-dimensional solutions to identified issues. According to Leticia N'cho-Traoré, General Commissioner of the SEIP and Managing Director of the Agency, numerous innovations will be presented throughout the show. These include financial planning speed dating sessions, the SEIP Special Cash Apéro, a masterclass, and the Young CEO talk. To these will add various panels.

"I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to the organizers of this meeting, namely Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire and the Agency, for this fine initiative which has become, over the years, one of the most eagerly awaited events, an unmissable and unique rendezvous dedicated to the financial education of our populations," stressed Dr. Edoh Kossi Amenounve, CEO of BRVM, in his opening speech. He added: "Education is the bedrock of all development, and financial education is one component that is not given enough time or attention. The Salon de l'épargne, de l'investissement et du patrimoine therefore represents a privileged showcase for debating, training and finding solutions".