Fatoumata Bailo Barry has been elected as the president of the Guinean Kick-boxing Federation (FGKB) on October 29, 2026. The election took place during an extraordinary general assembly at the Matam city hall in Conakry, Guinea. As the sole candidate, Barry secured 20 votes out of 21, earning her a four-year term. Her election marks a significant milestone for the sport in Guinea.
The election ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Doukrou Parfait, president of the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO); Salifou Ali Camara, head of the High Competition Division at the Ministry of Sports; and Abdoulaye Balipily Diallo, representative of the Guinean National Olympic and Sports Committee. Senkoun Kourouma, vice-mayor of Matam, welcomed guests and emphasized the role of sports in promoting social cohesion and youth development.
In her address, Barry outlined her vision for the federation, pledging to strengthen its organization, support clubs, and promote the development of athletes. She also announced plans to prioritize training and expand opportunities for young people and women in kick-boxing. Barry paid tribute to the pioneers of Guinean kick-boxing, particularly the late Hafia Bangoura, who introduced the sport to the country.
Salifou Ali Camara, representing the Minister of Sports, Cellou Baldé, urged the new leadership to demonstrate commitment, passion, and availability. He stressed the importance of organizing national championships to identify and prepare top talents, enabling Guinean athletes to compete internationally and bring home medals.
The Guinean Kick-boxing Federation has a significant role to play in promoting the sport and developing its athletes. With Barry at the helm, the federation is expected to introduce new initiatives and programs to grow the sport. Her election is seen as a positive step towards increasing female participation and leadership in sports administration in Guinea.
The event was also attended by inspectors and delegates from various affiliated clubs. The new president's agenda includes promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance within the federation. Barry's leadership will be crucial in shaping the future of kick-boxing in Guinea.
The Guinean Press Agency (AGP) reported that the election was a success, with Barry poised to lead the federation into a new era of growth and development. Her presidency is expected to bring new opportunities and challenges for the sport in Guinea.
Key points
- Fatoumata Bailo Barry becomes first female president of Guinea's Kick-boxing Federation
- Barry secures 20 votes out of 21 to win a four-year term
- The new president pledges to strengthen the federation, support clubs, and promote athlete development
