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My Voyage to Guinea Conakry: A Hasken Arewa Foundation Initiative 

My senses were greeted by green and brown foliage on April 26 as the plane tilted towards Guinea’s lowlands. Similar to northern Nigeria, there was a humid climate with hot air pressing firmly against my skin. I jokingly reasoned, “This person and our resources” as I watched the Chinese people move from every direction. Women, men, and children openly bowed on mats to perform their evening prayers in the mosques that are dispersed throughout the city, just as in northern Nigeria. Indeed, Guinea is an Islamic country,     but its Muslims are very different from the traditionalists in Northern Nigeria. Open signboards for brothels, bars,  and public displays of intoxication and .   nudity are strange for our typically haughty northerners.

It was refreshing to meet my host Aime director at CRY, “Care and Relief for the Young” and the attendees of the conference after a hectic trip. Nine nations were represented. Almost Immediately we started getting to know each other and the work each of us did in the name of the Lord. In no specific other, I miss, Nina a  Woman From Madagascar, a beautiful widow in whom I was fascinated by her hair, grace, and love for orphaned kids. This mother of four inspired such unwavering faith. Aime a French and settled in the UK but has Zion in his steps and such love for underprivileged kids all around the world. Nicholas had such life and passion for the lost and the people of Guinea I saw a French man being a father to Africans giving shelter, providing livelihood, and exuding Kingdom purpose. The two Sisters from Sarrealone are beautiful peaceful and such role models in the educational sector, their love for kids and hat their e for any form of violence. Steven the strong man, Pastor Emmanuel driven by his love for God, and for the church, scripture addict and compassionate, pastor Jonathan from Liberia a prophetic kind, and true leader, Pastor James is hospitable, humble, and generously joyous, my new mummy Maina a mother in Zion, an excellent educator, singer, and woman of God, and Mr. Benjamin kind, educator, advocate and a true man of God, my friend. Such a privilege to meet such important personalities.

Guinea, officially known as the Republic of Guinea, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The capital and largest city is Conakry.

Guinea has a diverse geography, with coastal plains to the west, mountains in the interior, and savanna to the east. The country’s economy is largely driven by its vast mineral resources, including bauxite, iron ore, gold, and diamonds. Agriculture also plays an important role in the economy, with the majority of the population engaged in subsistence farming.

The population of Guinea is estimated to be around 13 million people, with over 40 different ethnic groups and languages spoken throughout the country. French is the official language, but many Guineans also speak their indigenous languages.

Guinea has a rich cultural heritage, with traditions and customs that vary widely across the country. Music and dance are an important part of Guinean culture, and the country is known for its vibrant drumming and dance traditions.

In recent years, Guinea has made progress in improving its democratic institutions and human rights record, although there is still room for improvement. The country has also faced several challenges, including poverty, corruption, and political instability but oh what an incredibly productive time I had. How can I ever forget the beautiful scenery at the beach?

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CRY, Care and relief for the young