Mr. Jules Tiburce Koffi Kouadio, in the name of the Republic and in my own name, we make you Commander in the Order of Cultural Merit of Côte d’Ivoire! This is the content of the words of the Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire, Patrick Achi, before handing over the medal of Commander to journalist, writer, singer and musician Tiburce Koffi. This was during the official opening ceremony of the 12th MASA, March 5, 2022, at the Esplanade of the Palace of Culture.
The man of many talents, former Director General of the National Institute of Arts and Cultural Action (INSAAC) and the National Library was not the only servant of culture whose service was praised by the State of Côte d’Ivoire.
There was also the journalist-writer Venance Konan. The former DG of Fraternité Matin was elevated to the rank of Officer in the Order of Cultural Merit. The two men of media and letters named were accompanied by singers, actors and designers. They are notably the singer Noël Dourey (ND), the actors-comedians Bakary Bamba and Bruno Troupa Gbizié known as Zoumana, and the stylist-fashion designer Etienne Marcel. They were all promoted to the rank of Officer in the Ivorian Cultural Order. Their insignia of state recognition were given by the Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kandia Camara, and the Minister of Culture and Industry of Arts and Entertainment, Harlette Badou N’Gues-san Kouamé.
This recognition comes after the cultural year 2022 made on Thursday, February 17, 2022. During this event, many cultural actors had also been distinguished by the Ministry.