On December 21, 2025, the sound of tambourines and saxophones in the streets heralded two new church plantings in the cities of Agboville and Divo, bringing the number of churches in French-speaking Africa to 27.
Both services centered on a single, powerful message, “The Gate of Salvation,” inspired by Matthew 7:13–15.
Agboville
The official service in Agboville was held at the church’s own prayer house. This young and vibrant congregation currently counts 29 members, 15 brothers and 14 sisters, and had an attendance of 243 at the special service. The event was honored by the presence of a representative from the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene and Universal Health Coverage, highlighting the church’s positive connection with the local community.
The day was made even more joyful with the baptism of a woman, a beautiful reminder of God’s saving work. For the next three months, Éric and Françoise Kao, who also serve as leaders of the West 3 sector in Abidjan, will temporarily oversee the leadership of ICOC Agboville. Located 79 km from Abidjan, Agboville is the 15th biggest city in Côte d’Ivoire, with a population of 82,117, making it a strategic and promising location for the gospel.
Divo
In Divo, preparations were coordinated by Jacques and Rosaline Eboho and culminated in a heartfelt celebration at the church’s own place of worship. ICOC Divo currently has 24 disciples, and the inaugural service drew an attendance of 161 people. Encouragingly, 29 visitors expressed a desire to study the Bible, opening exciting doors for future growth. The leadership of this young congregation has been entrusted to Angelo and Pauline Bogui, a couple who recently returned from Togo and are eager to serve. Divo is located 188 km from Abidjan and is known for its strong economic and demographic potential. With a population estimated at 294,559 inhabitants, it is the sixth most populous city in Côte d’Ivoire and is marked by significant cultural diversity, including a large migrant population.
The celebrations concluded in the spirit of Acts 2, with shared meals, warm fellowship, and the breaking of bread, deepening unity and joy among disciples and guests alike.
We rejoice in what God is doing through these two new church plantings and pray that he continues to bless his work throughout the world, especially in French-speaking West Africa.
