Tour F, a supertall skyscraper under construction in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, is poised to become Africa's tallest building upon its expected completion in 2026. The 1,381-foot (421-meter) tower will surpass Egypt's Iconic Tower, which stands at 1,292 feet (393.8 meters) and currently holds the title of Africa's tallest building.
Project Background and Timeline
The concept for Tour F dates back to the 1970s, when it was included in an urban development plan to complement five existing towers in Abidjan's administrative complex. However, the project remained dormant until 2016, when the Ivorian government revived it to address growing space needs for ministries. In 2021, Belgian construction company Besix was awarded a £383 million contract to manage construction and carry out structural work.
Design and Features
Designed by Lebanese-Ivorian architect Pierre Fakhoury, the 75-story office building resembles a slender, multifaceted sculpture. Its most striking feature is a 30-meter-high glass 'lantern' at the top, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Abidjan and the Ébrié Lagoon, an 80-mile lagoon connected to the sea. The tower will also include reception areas, restaurants, meeting rooms, a large lecture hall, two freight elevators, and a panoramic elevator for visitors.
Impact on Africa's Skyline
Upon completion, Tour F will overtake the Iconic Tower in Egypt's New Administrative Capital, which opened in 2024 and previously surpassed the Great Mosque of Algiers Tower in Algeria. The number of skyscrapers across Africa is growing, and Tour F represents a significant milestone for the continent's architectural development.
