Freemasonry in Côte d’Ivoire, a brief history of the current issues

Freemasonry, a secret initiatory society, remains largely unknown in Côte d’Ivoire as in most of Africa. Moral clichés, closed-mindedness, and scandal mongering have painted a prejudicial portrait that is often detached from reality. A look back at the history of Masonic obediences in Côte d’Ivoire and on their special relationship with the colonial and post-colonial state and with the Church provides a more nuanced understanding of the current issues involving multiple and competing lodges. This interview was conducted with sociologist Francis Akindès [2].