Dr Chantal Colle, currently attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, has paid tribute to Sidya Touré, the former Prime Minister of Guinea, who passed away on September 26, 2026. In a heartfelt message, Colle recalled their meeting during the preparation of her book, Guinéoscope, which aimed to showcase Guinea to the world. She remembered Touré as a technocrat who had dedicated his life to serving his country.
Colle's encounter with Touré was facilitated by President Lansana Conté, who introduced him as a selfless individual who valued his country. Touré, born in 1945, had maintained plantations in Guinea despite living in Côte d'Ivoire. Colle described him as a decisive Prime Minister who was committed to working with President Conté to build a strong and successful Guinea. He had expressed his determination to surround himself with young, talented Guinean cadres.
Touré had highlighted the potential of four young ministers, including Ibrahima Kassory Fofana, Cellou Dalein Diallo, Ousmane Kaba, and Hadja Saran Daraba Kaba, who would go on to play significant roles in Guinean politics. Colle noted that this team was remarkably young and lacked connections to influential families or cliques. Their appointment marked a significant shift in Guinea's politics, as the government began to prioritize competence over age and experience.
The legacy of Touré's team is evident in the careers of its members. Two of them, Cellou Dalein Diallo and Ibrahima Kassory Fofana, would later become Prime Ministers under different presidents. Ousmane Kaba founded the Kofi Annan University of Guinea, which has become the country's largest private university. Hadja Saran Daraba Kaba made history by becoming the first Guinean woman to run for president in 2010.
Colle also recalled the 2010 presidential election, where several candidates from Touré's team competed against each other. Despite their differences, they maintained a level of respect and prioritized the country's interests. Touré himself had demonstrated courage in the face of adversity, publicly opposing the junta led by Moussa Dadis Camara in 2009.
Sidya Touré passed away in Paris, far from his beloved Guinea. Dr. Chantal Colle remembered him as a man who had dedicated his life to serving his country and believing in its potential. His passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, and Colle extended her condolences to his family and loved ones.
In her message, Colle expressed her hope that Touré's legacy would inspire future generations of Guineans. His commitment to his country's development and his selflessness serve as a shining example of public service. As Guinea continues to navigate its complex history, Touré's memory will be cherished as a devoted patriot who worked tirelessly for his country's prosperity.
Key points
- Dr Chantal Colle remembers Sidya Touré as a dedicated public servant who prioritized Guinea's development.
