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Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met with Côte d’Ivoire Prime Minister Robert Beugre Mambe on May 24, 2025, at the Prime Minister's residence in Abidjan. The meeting occurred just before the dedication of the Abidjan Ivory Coast Temple and highlighted a growing relationship between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Ivorian government.
During the visit, Elder Rasband presented Prime Minister Mambe with a personalized copy of the Book of Mormon and a replica of the Christus statue. These gifts were received as tokens of goodwill. Due to schedule changes, their meeting was relocated from the Prime Minister’s office to his home, which was noted as an honor.
The visitors were welcomed by His Excellency’s Chief of Staff and Sister Bli Fidèle Régistre, a church member who helped arrange the meeting. Upon arrival, Elder Rasband offered a prayer invoking peace, protection for families, and religious freedom in Côte d’Ivoire while blessing Prime Minister Mambe’s leadership.
Elder Rasband discussed the temple's role in providing spiritual blessings and highlighted welfare and self-reliance programs offered by the Church. In response, Prime Minister Mambe expressed gratitude for these efforts, describing the temple as a profound symbol of hope.
The discussion also covered shared values between both parties. Elder Rasband emphasized collaboration with the government to promote peace and empowerment among members.
Accompanying Elder Rasband were Elder José A. Teixeira, Elder Alfred Kyungu, and Elder Jean-Claude Sai. The visit strengthened mutual respect and reinforced commitments to peace, self-reliance, and spiritual growth.
