Samatiguila Department was created in 2009 as a second-level subdivision via a split-off from Odienné Department.[3] At its creation, it was part of Denguélé Region.
In 2011, districts were introduced as new first-level subdivisions of Ivory Coast. At the same time, regions were reorganised and became second-level subdivisions and all departments were converted into third-level subdivisions. At this time, Samatiguila Department became part of Kabadougou Region in Denguélé District.