Djene Kaba Condé was the First Lady of the Republic of Guinea from 2010 until the turbulent events of the 2021 military coup d’état. Beyond the halls of power, she was a passionate humanitarian and diplomat with global influence. She was a member of the Organization of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS and the founder of the CONDE Djènè KABA Foundation for the Promotion of Mother and Child Social Promotion (PROSMI).
Background and Early Life
Djene Kaba Condé was born in 1960 in the city of Kankan, Guinea. Djene Kaba Condé hailed from a modest yet ambitious family. Her dedication and hard work were recognized by both friends and family. Her educational journey began at the Dramé Oumar School in Kankan and culminated at the prestigious University Paris VII in France. There, she earned a Master’s degree in Information Science and Communications and also delved into the complexities of sociology. Shed layed the foundation for a multifaceted career.
Throughout her educational path, from Almamy Samory Touré High School to her graduation with honors from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Nature at Donka. Djene exhibited unwavering determination and academic excellence. In 1984, she arrived at University Jussieu Paris 7, earning a degree and Master’s in Sociology with honors. Her academic acumen reached its peak with her dissertation analyzing racism in the French press, conducting a comparative study of prominent publications like Le Monde, Le Figaro, and Libération
Djene Kaba Condé was married to Alpha Condé, a former president of Guinea. As First Lady, her sphere of influence expanded, leading her to join the Organisation of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS. a significant advocate for humanitarian causes across Africa. While her public profile undoubtedly grew during this period, it’s crucial to remember that her commitment to social impact had deeper roots.
Career and Achievements
Before assuming the role of First Lady, Djene Kaba Condé already possessed a strong foundation for impactful social involvement. Her educational background, diverse work experience, and expertise in communication and human resources proved invaluable in establishing and leading the Conde Djènè Kaba Foundation.
After her postgraduate studies, Djene began her career at the Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation. Taking on various roles ranging from assisting the communications director to managing IT and human resources. This experience paved the way for her pivotal role as an Employment Counselor at the National Employment Agency. Where her dedication to societal betterment translated into tangible action
Socially, Djene Kaba Condé actively championed humanitarian causes for women and children through the Foundation. The Foundation for Maternal and Child Social Promotion (PROSMI), which she established in 2011. This foundation became the platform for her unwavering passion, encompassing initiatives focused on health, environmental sustainability, and women’s empowerment. Djene Kaba Condé’s legacy extends far beyond the political realm, resonating deeply in the pursuit of social change and empowerment.
Through the Conde Djènè Kaba Foundation, she dedicated herself to promoting infant and maternal health, peace, education, and environmental protection. Despite limited resources, the foundation achieved significant accomplishments. These include hygiene and sanitation campaigns in major cities, donations of medical supplies, and educational materials. And also the provision of wheelchairs to children with disabilities, and an ambulance dedicated to supporting pregnant women in Kankan.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, Djene Kaba Condé sadly passed away on April 8, 2023, at the age of 63 in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France. As we remember her life and legacy, it’s crucial to recognize that her contributions extended far beyond her official positions. However, Her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of women and children through her foundation remains a lasting testament to her positive impact on the social landscape of Guinea.
