Cote d'Ivoire's Minister of Defense Hamed Bakayoko has tested positive for COVID-19.

The minister made the announcement on Monday, saying he was in isolation although he had not exhibited symptoms of the disease.

"I was declared positive for the COVID-19 test following a sample taken yesterday Sunday," Bakayoko wrote on Facebook.

"I urge you to take seriously the observation of all barriers to protect yourself and protect others."

Cote d'Ivoire is one of over 50 African states that have recorded cases of COVID-19. The West Africa country has 261 confirmed cases according to the John Hopkins University.

Africa's confirmed COVID-19 cases have surpassed 9,000, with over 400 deaths. Over 800 patients have recovered.