SOCIAL AND CULTURAL HISTORY OF THE YORUBA COMMUNITY IN ABIDJAN, 1942–2002

This paper examines the socio-economic activities of the Yoruba community in Abidjan, highlighting the origins, growth, and expansion of their trading practices. Drawing on primary sources—including oral interviews with Yoruba residents, personal records, and newspaper reports—and secondary sources such as books and scholarly journals, the study provides a comprehensive account of Yoruba commercial engagement in the city. The Yoruba in Abidjan are a vibrant socio-political and economic group, primarily engaged in trading a variety of goods and services, including tailoring materials, foodstuffs, artisan crafts, transportation services, clothing, and alcoholic beverages. The paper demonstrates that the city’s relative peace, political stability, and effective law enforcement created a conducive environment for commercial activities, enabling the Yoruba community to thrive economically. Abidjan’s status as a major regional commercial center facilitated investment and business opportunities, fostering the growth and sustainability of Yoruba trade networks. The study underscores the critical role of socio-political stability and supportive urban infrastructure in shaping the economic success of migrant communities.