Professor Marco Wyss, Co-Director of Lancaster University’s Centre for War and Diplomacy (CWD), has published Félix Houphouët-Boigny with Ohio University Press in its Ohio Short Histories of Africa series.

Described by the publisher as the first English-language biography of Houphouët-Boigny, the book examines the life and legacy of the leader who governed Côte d’Ivoire from independence in 1960 until his death in 1993. It traces his political evolution from colonial politics to the presidency, exploring the tensions between economic development, authoritarian rule and close relations with France.

The biography also examines Houphouët-Boigny’s regional ambitions and Cold War diplomacy, including his involvement in the Congo and Biafra and his engagement with apartheid South Africa. It places his career within the wider history of Françafrique, illuminating the enduring connections between France and its former African colonies.

Professor Wyss is Professor of International History and Security in Lancaster’s School of Global Affairs. His research explores the international history of the Cold War, particularly in Africa, and Britain’s and France’s postcolonial security roles.

The paperback was published on 20 October 2026, and the book is also available as an ebook.

Find out more about Félix Houphouët-Boigny on the Ohio University Press website.