Motoragri and the Modernization of Agriculture in Côte d’Ivoire from 1966 to 2000

The creation of MOTORAGRI aimed to modernize agriculture through the introduction of agricultural machinery and modern techniques, in order to improve productivity and increase the yields of agricultural operations. However, between 1966 and 2000, the implementation of these mechanization policies also encountered many obstacles. Financial, logistical and technical challenges have limited the effectiveness of these initiatives. What were the actions of MOTORAGRI in the policy of modernizing agriculture in Côte d’Ivoire? To carry out this study, we used archival sources and all of the historiography relating to MOTORAGRI. The analysis of this article highlights the modernization of agricultural practices, the construction of hydro-agricultural infrastructure and the positive impact on crop productivity and the increase in farmers’ income initiated by MOTORAGRI in Ivorian agriculture, as well as than the limits encountered. Keywords: Agriculture, Agricultural Policy, Mechanization, Motorization, MOTORAGRI